vlad.tribnet.com / Issue #159 / Business / Reading article...

Pacific Fleet submarine B-187 returned from four months’ travel Jan. 19 with rave reviews — and possible business deals in its pocket.

The Varshavyanka class sub had participated in two international exhibitions of military equipment: in Thailand Oct. 20-27, and in Malasia Dec. 2-8. It was the first time a Russian battleship of its kind had taken part in such events.

Interest in the ship was high, fleet spokesmen said. More than 500 visitors from 14 countries came aboard, including diplomats, military officers and ship repair workers. Russia was included on the list of potential suppliers of submarines for Thai and Malasian forces — a possible shot in the arm for Russia’s battered defense industry.