MOSCOW - According to the head of Russia's state arms exporting agency, Rosoboronexport, final payment for the Mistral-class assault ships will not be made until the second vessel is delivered.
"The final payment on the contract will be made in November 2015, after the delivery of the second ship," Anatoly Isaykin said.
Russia purchased two Mistral-class (Vladivostok class in Russian service) vessels from France in 2011. The first ship is scheduled for delivery to the Russian Navy in November 2014 followed by the second in November 2015.
The purchase has been the subject of controversy lately in light of Russian aggression in the conflict with Ukraine. Despite attempts by the United States and Europe, France refuses to cancel the deal. However, French President François Hollande made a remark last month that the second vessel's delivery would "depend on Russia's attitude." Moscow has responded by withholding payment until the vessel is delivered.