New Delhi, October 16
In yet another demonstration of friendship, Russia had provided weapons and spares to India during the Kargil conflict after withdrawing equipment from their own forces, Defence Minister George Fernandes revealed here today.

Mr Fernandes said at a press conference that during the Kargil war, the Indian forces were not adequately equipped.

Russia proved a trusted ally of India at that critical time by providing the required weapons and arms and ammunition, he said. Mr Fernandes lamented that the previous governments did not procure enough weapons for the defence forces to enable them to remain fully prepared to face any eventuality.

The Defence Minister, who held three rounds of talks with Russian Deputy Prime Minister IIya Klabenov here for enhancing defence cooperation between the two countries, said India and Russia had agreed to go for joint design and procurement of combat aircraft and multi-role aircraft.

Russia has agreed to supply 80 T 90 tanks to India this year as against an earlier commitment of 40, he said, adding that supply of spare parts from Russia for defence equipment was also discussed with Mr Klabenov.

Meanwhile, India will receive on lease from Russia four TU-22 bombers, which are capable of carrying nuclear warheads, and the two countries will sign an agreement in this regard next month.

Addressing a press conference here today, Russian Deputy Prime Minister llya Klebanov, however, refused to comment on the possibility of leasing a nuclear submarine to India.

Mr Klebanov met Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee today and held extensive talks with him on the future set-up in Afghanistan and the current situation in that country and Pakistan.

Senior officials of the two countries concluded talks on the lease of these strategic aircraft recently.