NEW DELHI, Jan 9 (KUNA) -- India Wednesday said it was holding negotiations with old and time-tested ally Russia to acquire 'Groshkov' aircraft carrier. "There has been no major breakthrough on the Groshkov issue, though discussions are on," India's Defence Minister A K Antony told news agency Press Trust of India on the sidelines of defence function at Delhi today. Antony said negotiating teams from both countries had held several rounds of talks on the issue. A Russian delegation could visit India later this month to discuss the issue. The Defence Minister, who recent visited Kuala Lumpur, also said that Malaysia was keen to purchase the surface to air 'Akash' missiles. "Malaysian leaders during talks with me expressed interest in the missiles, " Antony said. Malaysia is also keen to buy Brahmos supersonic cruise missiles jointly developed by India and Russia. He said that India's strategic weapons projects like nuclear submarine and strategic missiles were on schedule. The nuclear submarine project 'Advanced Technology Demonstrator' would be ready for sea trials by next year. (end) dr .bz.
KUNA 091751 Jan 08NNNN