India, Russia begin joint antiterrorism drills
Russian and Indian joint antiterrorism exercises begin on Indian territory on Friday and will last through October 24.
Russia is sending more than 200 troops from its 34th mountain brigade, based in the North Caucasus, to join the Indian troops in the INDRA 2010 drills.
Russian Air Force Ilyushin Il-76 aircraft delivered the Russian troops in the north-east of India on Thursday.
The Russian troops will be equipped with lightweight Permyachka Infantry Suits, which protect at least 80 percent of the body surface from small-caliber bullets and low-speed shrapnel.
The Indian and Russian military have conducted joint INDRA exercises since 2003, including biannual peacekeeping drills.
India`s military cooperation with Russia goes back nearly half a century, and the Asian country accounts for about 40% of Russian arms exports.
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