Date:22/01/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/01/22/stories/2007012222670100.htm

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Russia not for exporting BrahMos to other nations

"India is one thing; she is our strategic partner"

It can upset balance of forces in any region

Its range could be extended from the current 300 km

Moscow: Describing the BrahMos cruise missile, developed jointly by India and Russia, as ``highly lethal'' and capable of upsetting the balance of forces in any region where they may appear, a top Russian defence official has said Moscow was not keen on its export to other countries.

Initially, Moscow and New Delhi agreed to jointly export it to ``friendly'' countries.

However, recent aggressive marketing moves by the New Delhi-based company had drawn flak in Russia.

``This is a very lethal and potent weapon system, which can upset the balance of forces in any region," said Colonel-General Anatoly Mazurkevich . — PTI