Moscow: Russia will start in May the delivery of MiG 29-K fighters to the Indian navy for deployment on Gorshkov aircraft carrier after its induction, Naval chief Admiral Suresh Mehta said here today.

A team of Indian naval pilots will be arriving in Russia for a five-month training programme, Mahta said after visiting the MiG plant, which is assembling the fighters for the deployment on Gorshkov after its induction as INS Vikramaditya in 2012.

Mehta, who arrived here on a six-day visit yesterday, is also expected to discuss the vital issues of cooperation with his Russian counterpart Admiral Vladimir Vysotsky and fly the MiG-29K fighter.

The issues of seagoing trials of Admiral Gorshkov by the Russian Navy prior to its delivery are also expected to be discussed by Admiral Mehta with his Russian counterpart.

The Russian shipyard has promised to deliver the 44-thousand tonne vessel for the 18-month sea trials in 2010 provided more funds are allocated to cover cost escalation.

Admiral Mehta is scheduled to visit Severodvinsk-based Sevmash shipyard in Arctic Russia for the inspection of requirements of Gorshkov upgradation, amid indications of New Delhi's readiness to revise the cost of the deal.

Before leaving for home on March 19, Admiral Mehta will also discuss the issues of other naval projects with the officials of several naval design bureaus in St Petersburg.
Source : PTI