Western missiles, technology on Russian jets

EADS, the largest European aerospace company, Sukhoi Corporation, the Russian defence technology sales company Rosoboronexport and the European missile manufacturer MBDA have signed a protocol at the Paris Air Show

The protocol outlines opportunities for co-operation in the areas of joint development of future defence systems including UCAV technology, possibilities for inclusion of MBDA missile systems for Sukhoi fighter aircraft, joint product support activities and aircraft modernisation.

"This agreement is an important move in our strategy to further develop the EADS defence business globally. EADS believes that innovation is our competitive strength, and the teaming agreement with Sukhoi is important for the development of technology for future defence systems", said Philippe Camus and Rainer Hertrich, the CEOs of EADS.

Mikhail Pogosyan, General Director of Sukhoi, said: "This agreement is a major milestone for Russian-European co-operation in the defence industry and combines the strengths of two world leaders."

Marwan Lahoud, MBDA Chief Executive Officer, said: "MBDA, which has been developing, manufacturing and exporting missiles for over 50 years, is a major player in the air-launched weapons market. This co-operation with Sukhoi will be mutually beneficial as it will give us both market opportunities."

The partners will set up a working group, which will develop the issues of the protocol.

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