In a $53 million deal signed recently, Russia will receive two models of IAI‘s low-tier UAVs, those being the I-view MK150 tactical UAV and the Searcher Mk II medium-range UAV. an interview with the RIA Novosti news agency on Monday, Vyacheslav Dzirkaln, deputy head of the Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation, revealed that the main goal of the deal with Israel was to study the technology in order to build the drones domestically. At least there’s honesty about the purchase. “We must take their know-how and put it to practical use [in developing our own craft],” Dzirkaln was quoted as saying.
Russia’s interest in Israeli drones surfaced in late 2008 following the war in Georgia, during which Tbilisi operated Israeli-made drones. Israeli officials said that this was not part of the deal signed with Russia, but that the possibility had been “taken into consideration,” and as a result the advanced UAV models and accompanying technology would not be sold to Moscow. “We have a responsibility to safeguard our ingenious technology,” one official said. “We were aware of this possibility, even though it was not said explicitly until now.” According to Russian media reports, the military is planning on manufacturing 100 drones and close to a dozen guidance systems that could be used for reconnaissance in the event of a conflict. Until now, the reports said, Russian defense companies — Irkut and Vega Radio — have failed to develop an advanced system. (Source: The Jerusalem Post)
