Technology Transfer Said To Hold Up Final Mistral Deal

A source close to negotiations says Russia and France have signed a protocol of intent on the purchase of Mistral-class amphibious ships, but not a final contract, RIA Novosti reports.

There were a number of reports indicating that a final agreement was signed on June 10.

The French Mistral class is capable of carrying 16 helicopters, four landing vessels, 70 armored vehicles and 450 personnel.

It is equipped with the NATO-standard SENIT-9 naval tactical data system and...