Brazil, Russia Discuss Arms Deal

Brazilian Vice President Michel Temer (left) and Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev exchange documents during a signing ceremony in Brasilia on February 20.

Brazil is considering buying Russian antiaircraft missile systems to help it protect the skies when Brazil hosts the 2014 World Cup finals and 2016 Olympic Games.

The deal was being discussed during Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev’s visit to Brazil, which began on February 20.

Brazil's Defense Ministry says it is interested in buying medium-range, surface-to-air Pantsir S1 missile and artillery batteries, and Igla-S shoulder-held missiles.

Officials said negotiations on a contract would begin in March.

No word was given on the potential value of such a deal.

Officials say Brazil is seeking to acquire the technology from Russia so Brazilian defense companies can make the weapons themselves.

Based on reporting by Reuters and AFP