Washington: Describing the Pokhran nuclear test as a "significant milestone" in India's nuclear weapons development programme, the CIA has said the 1998 test has led New Delhi to continue its efforts to develop "more sophisticated weapons".

The Central Intelligence Agency in its latest semi-annual report to Congress on acquisition of technology relating to weapons of mass destruction and advanced conventional munitions, covers the first six months of 2002.

"India still lacks engineering or production expertise in some key missile technologies. Entities in Russia and Western Europe remained primary conduits of missile-related and dual-use technology transfers during 2001.

"During the reporting period, India flight-tested the Agni I ballistic missile and continued work with the Russians on the BrahMos cruise missile," it said.

Advanced conventional weapons acquisitions, primarily from Russia, continued to play an important role in India's across-the-board modernisation of its armed forces, the CIA report said.

Many key programmes have been plagued by delays, but New Delhi has received the first of a licensed upgrade of 125 MiG-21-93 fighter aircraft, working with Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd, it said.

In 2001, New Delhi concluded an $ 800 million contract with Russia for 310 T-90S main battle tanks and a smaller contract for KA-31 helicopters, the report said.

India was also negotiating with Russia for nuclear submarines and an aircraft carrier, while continuing to explore options for leasing or purchasing several airborne early warning systems, the CIA report said.

In addition to purchasing the Green Pine radar from Israel, New Delhi also signed a $ 270 million contract with Tel Aviv for ship-borne Barak-I surface-to-air missile defence system.

The Indian Air Force reopened the competition for AJTs (Advanced Jet Trainers) from the Czech Republic and the United Kingdom.

Israel also sought to expand its defence cooperation with India.

In recent months, India and Israel engaged in negotiations for the sale of Arrow-2 anti-tactical-ballistic missile.

India has already taken delivery of the Israeli Greenpine radar for installation at a ground site for use as an early warning platform -- in conjunction with the Phalcon AEW aircraft. Israel has also reportedly sold the Harpy unmanned aerial vehicle to India, the report said.

PTI