Jailtey invites Russian firms to propel 'Make in India' in defence production

Defence Minister Arun Jaitley on Wednesday invited Russian firms to partner with Indian companies to propel the Make in India mantra in defence production.

Addressing the fifth plenary session of the International Forum for Technological Development "TECHNOPROM" here, Jaitley said Russia would have a comparative advantage in realizing the potential of 'Make in India' in defence production.

"Since the signing of the Declaration of India-Russia Strategic Partnership in 2000, our bilateral ties have witnessed enhanced levels of cooperation in a wide range of areas," Jaitley said.

"Today, we enjoy vibrant and mutually beneficial political ties, defence and security cooperation, trade and economic partnership, science and technology linkages and cultural exchanges," he added.

He cited the production of the Brahmos Missile System and the licensed production of advanced Sukhoi 30 aircraft in India as the highlights India and Russia's bilateral cooperation in defence.

Jailtey, who co-chaired the inaugural meeting of the India-Russia High Level Science and Technology Committee with Deputy Prime Minister Rogozin, said both countries have resolved to place India and Russia's scientific and technological cooperation at the centre of our their relationship.

"This new mechanism will further energise our partnership by opening up advanced areas of cooperation that will benefit our future generations," he said.

Jailtey said India's later introduction of Buy (IDDM)', under the 2016 edition of Defence Procurement Procedure, first preference would be given equipments, which are designed, developed and manufactured within the country.

"I invite Russian companies to come forward with proposals for technology transfer to Indian companies and facilitate manufacturing of more advanced components/ parts and sub-systems," he said.

On June 23, Jaitley will co-chair the 17th meeting of the India-Russia Inter Governmental Commission on Military- Technical Cooperation with his Russian counterpart General Sergei Shoigu.