WarSclerotic

Russia is negotiating a second weapons deal with Israel, purchasing unmanned spy planes valued at around $100 million, an Israeli defense source says.

The new deal with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) would be worth about twice the size of an initial $50 million sale announced in April.

“The Russians are going for a triple upgrade of their fleet and its capabilities,” an unnamed Israeli source told Reuters on Monday.

He added that the pact would also feature improved surveillance equipment on drones.

IAI declined to comment.

The war between Russia and Georgia in August 2008 has served to bring Israel’s intensive involvement in the Caucasus into the limelight.

Reports indicate that Israel had been supplying Georgia with infantry weapons, electronics for artillery systems and ground attack jets for over seven years before the war began.

More then a year after the five-day conflict, Moscow is now seeking to revamp its army by seeking modern weapons through Israel.

Tel Aviv hopes that the two drone deals would help improve ties with the Kremlin, which has had good relations with Iran.