Russia’s Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin said the country has the capability to build Mistral-class helicopter carriers on its own if France decides not to deliver the two vessels Moscow ordered.
“The French must prove they are serious partners and reliable contractors,” Rogozin said after a meeting between President Vladimir Putin and Cabinet members. “If they fail to do so, we will build the [Mistral] ships on our own. We are finally capable to do it,” Rogozin, who oversees Russia’s defense sector, said.