Russia Considers French, Spanish and Dutch Warships

Russia is considering purchasing warships from Spain and the Netherlands in addition to plans to buy four Mistral ships from France, according to Defence Minister Anatoly Serdyukov.

Serdyukov said that Russia wants to buy one ship, and jointly build three others in deals with Nato countries, according to voanews.com.

"The ships will probably come into service in Russia's northern and Pacific fleets," Serdyukov said.

France has agreed to sell a Mistral Class ship, a large amphibious assault vessel that can carry 16 attack helicopters and dozens of armoured vehicles, to the Russian Navy.