Moscow evaluates additional Israeli UAVs

19/05/11 By Arie Egozi Flight International

Moscow is evaluating the purchase of additional Israeli-made unmanned air vehicle types, in a move which could build on its previous purchase of two Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) designs.

Following first deliveries of the company's BirdEye-400 and Searcher-2 air vehicles, the Russian side is "showing great interest" in additional IAI models, sources said. Moscow signed a $400 million contract last year to acquire the systems.

IAI refused to give details but sources said each new request will be evaluated "in the framework" of Israeli interests.

A special unit of the Israeli defence ministry is tasked with controlling the transfer of such equipment.

Moscow has recently supplied Syria with advanced weapon systems, despite Israeli requests to refrain from making such sales. This has led to questions related to the sale of advanced Israeli technology to Russia.