MOSCOW: The upgradation of the Gorshkov aircraft carrier is proceeding on schedule and the ship along with deck-based MiG-29K aircraft would be delivered to the Indian Navy in autumn 2008, Defence Secretary Shakhar Dutt said here on Friday.

Describing the Gorshkov refit as "a very unique project," Mr. Dutt said it would be a "completely new ship with a new philosophy" having new design and capabilities.

Originally designed as a heavy aircraft cruiser for vertical short takeoff and landing, Gorshkov is having its flight deck extended for operating both fixed wing aircraft and helicopters.

The official told The Hindu that Gorshkov would have some Indian-built equipment, including electronic and electrical systems.

During his five-day visit to Russia from June 13 to 18, the Defence Secretary reviewed progress on Gorshkov and held talks with top Russian defence officials.

He visited the Nevsky Design Bureau in St. Petersburg, which has redesigned Gorshkov, and the Zvezdochka shipyard in Severodvinsk where Gorshkov is undergoing refit.

He also held wide-ranging talks with Defence Minister Sergei Ivanov.

Regarding plans to acquire three more Krivak-class frigates from Russia, Mr. Dutt said all outstanding issues of the deal would be resolved shortly.

The new frigates would be more advanced than the first three the Indian Navy took delivery in 2003-04.

According to Russian sources, the new frigates will carry PJ-10 Brahmos anti-ship missiles jointly built by India and Russia.

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