Russia To Seal Air Defense Deal With Brazil Soon

Russia and Brazil are at the final stages of talks on the delivery of Russian Pantsir-S1 air defense systems.

A Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu visited Brazil to discuss prospects of bilateral defense and space cooperation, including the sales of Pansir-S1 and Igla missile systems, during the Latin American tour last week.

“We are moving toward the agreement on Pantsir systems…but drafting the final document needs time,” Shoigu said.

The Pantsir-S1, produced by Russia's KBP, is a gun-missile system combining a wheeled vehicle mounting a fire-control radar and electro-optical sensor, two 30-mm cannons and up to 12 57E6 radio-command guided short-range missiles, and is designed to take on a variety of targets flying at low altitudes.

Brazilian military officials believe that the Pansir-S1 could become a key element of air defenses during the upcoming 2014 FIFA World Cup and Summer Olympics 2016 in Brazil.

The potential Brazilian deal, which includes the purchase of three Pantsir-S1 batteries (up to 18 units), is estimated at $1 billion, according to Russia’s Kommersant business daily.