2/7/2012 Arie Egozi - israeldefense.com
Moscow wants to sign military acquisition agreements with Israel, including the transfer of knowledge, primarily in the field of UAV production
Russia is accelerating its efforts towards signing additional acquisition agreements with Israel as part of their effort to establishment an advanced military development center that is similar to DARPA in the US. IsraelDefense has learned that Moscow is making an effort to sign agreements that also include the transfer of technology.
Russian President Vladimir Putin instructed the establishment of the center out of the understanding that the country is behind in several fields in which China is quickly advancing.
The center will be established at a location that has already been chosen. Russia's intent is to enter into the development of military and future technologies in several fields.
The issue was brought up during Putin's visit to Israel last week. European sources are stating that there are already understandings for the implementation of additional military acquisition transactions, which will include the transfer of technology. The transfer of knowledge was concluded within the framework of the UAV agreements with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) for constructing a UAV factory.
While are many opponents to the transfer of knowledge in Israel, those who support it say that there are many advantages to the controlled knowledge transfer. Russia has recognized that Israel is very advanced in several fields, and is therefore seeking to increase cooperation between the two countries.
As reported by IsraelDefense last week, Russia and Israel are expected to develop an advanced UAV suitable for Russia’s operational needs. Russia’s Deputy Prime Minister, Dmitry Rogozin, recently expressed his satisfaction with the Israeli-Russian cooperation in the field of UAVs, and sources close to the issue said that the cooperation represents part of a larger “strategic understanding” that serves both sides regarding a wide range of issues.
