At this point flanker negotiations are just rumours. Much more likely are anywhere between 40-200 helicopters.
From what i understand, (and this is my speculation) a historic deal between Pakistan and Russia is being made, and its starting with a big arms deal that includes Mi-17s, Mi-35s, SAM systems, and a myriad of other smaller items. Russian weapons probably suit Pakistani requirements much better than American – reasonably priced, rugged, effective.
PS: the really interesting part is that a PAF officer went to Russia for very successful talks on “air defence” matters. Mi35s and assault helis are operated by the PA not PAF. And have little to do with air defence. Munir, a longtime forumer with a track record of getting his insider info right notes tantalizingly that he cannot say anything but he is shocked at what is being discussed between Russia anf Pakistan and it is beyond anything he had imagined.
THE Mi35 deal has been confirmed by both the Russian and Pakistani sides so its not just a rumour.The Russian justification of the deal would be that Pakistan needs the helos to fight the Taliban and present no threat to India.As for Russia selling SAM to Pakistan i remain highly sceptical as these are of no use against terrorists and but useful against IAF.An Su35 deal is a non-starter as far as India is concerned i would think and as Deino said budget wise there is simply no money for that
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