Russian defense minister leaves for India

Russian Defense Minister Anatoly Serdyukov has departed for India where he will attend a meeting of the Russian-Indian intergovernmental commission for military-technical cooperation. Serdyukov's spokeswoman said that the key issues to be discussed include the refit of the Vikramaditya aircraft carrier, construction of frigates for India's Navy, as well as licensed production of Russian Su-30MKI (Flanker-H) fighters and T-90S battle tanks in India, according to the Russian (RIA Novosti) News Agency. She added that the commission may also discuss prospects of interaction in upgrade programs for Indian Air Force aircraft, infantry fighting vehicles and tanks and other issues. The sides will sum up their joint activity and sign a relevant protocol.