Chapter 90 - Chapter 90: Su-47 Golden Eagle’s Full Tech Suite. How Does That Sound?
Chapter 90: Su-47 Golden Eagle’s Full Tech Suite. How Does That Sound?
Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation
He changed into fresh attire before setting out. Tang Rui hopped into a car destined for the conference center. Lin Chao, the ever-curious one, asked the military personnel, “Where can we find the Russian representative?”
“They are waiting for you in conference room 3,” came the response.
“Alright,” Tang Rui acknowledged.
Upon reaching Conference Room 3, he and Lin Chao entered to find representatives from Russia’s family already seated. On the opposite side, military personnel from both parties engaged in casual conversations.
General Andre, representing Russia, extended a greeting, “This is President Tang of Crimson Technology.”
The military representatives introduced both sides and tactfully withdrew, leaving the negotiations to their discretion. It was clear; the military wouldn’t meddle.
Tang Rui understood the unspoken message; it was his call whether to make the sale. The military maintained neutrality.
Tang Rui, observing the situation, knew exactly what was at play. The military had no preferences.
“Hello, General Andre. 1 appreciate your recognition of our company’s products,” Tang Rui greeted Andre in Russian.
“That’s excellent. You speak Russian, which will make our communication more convenient,” Andre responded with pleasure.
After exchanging pleasantries, they all took their seats. The Russian, perhaps more eager than the rest, wasted no time. He inquired directly about the price of the fire-fighting drones.
Tang Rui provided the quote, “Our consumer drones are sold as sets, including the onboard system. The entire package costs $2.2 million.”
Andre appeared astonished. Was he hearing this correctly? Russia wasn’t the Middle East, after all. Could this be a genuine offer?
“Mr. Tang, we are serious and sincere. If we can reach an agreement on the price, we will purchase in bulk. So, I hope Mr. Tang can offer us a sincere deal,” Andre expressed his earnestness.
Tang Rui contemplated for a moment and then proposed, “How about this, General Andre? Name a price and quantity. If I find it acceptable, we proceed; otherwise, we can continue discussions. I understand if the gap is too wide, but there’s no need to waste each other’s time.”
Tang Rui spoke assertively, reflecting his unwillingness to engage in prolonged haggling. The Middle East, in his experience, was easier to deal with; they made purchases without fuss, even compensating for exercise expenses.
In Russia’s case, there was more uncertainty. Tang Rui had to be cautious not to jeopardize his relationship with the Middle East over a small sum from Russia.
General Andre glanced at his colleagues, and after some silent exchange of looks, he finally spoke up. “We don’t require the entire vehicle system. Instead, we only need the missiles. We’re prepared to purchase 2000 missiles in the first batch at a rate of $4000 per unit.”
Eight million dollars! That was a substantial sum. Unfortunately, the price difference was significant. Furthermore, Russia only sought the fire-fighting drones; they weren’t interested in the vehicles. How could Tang Rui manage to make a profit from this deal?
Regretfully, Tang Rui declined, “I’m sorry, but the gap between our offers is too wide. Reaching an agreement seems challenging. I hope we can consider collaboration in the future.”
With that, Tang Rui stood up, indicating his intent to leave the negotiation.
However, Andre hurriedly interjected, “Mr. Tang, please wait a moment. I need to consult with higher-ups and secure additional funds. Give us some time, and we’ll revisit this discussion, alright?”
Andre’s urgency was palpable. Russia was on the verge of desperation. Two S11-35S had been downed due to their inability to carry precision-guided bombs; they had resorted to using outdated ones. Their fighter jets were nearly out of maintenance funds, and even S11-27S had been deployed to the battlefield.
Russia had exhausted all resources, even selling blood to stay afloat. Their immediate need was weaponry capable of precisely targeting enemies. However, missiles were exorbitantly expensive, and Russia couldn’t afford to squander them. Tang Rui’s fire-fighting drones, proven effective in real combat against Middle Eastern forces, were the solution Russia desperately sought.
Tang Rui agreed, “Alright, then we’ll leave first. We’ll reconvene once you’ve completed your deliberations.”
Tang Rui nodded; his willingness to cooperate evident. He understood that Russia possessed valuable resources; they might be willing to exchange or sell them in return.
After all, negotiations were a gradual process; there was no rush on his part.
Tang Rui took a break for over an hour while the Russian team regrouped. He rubbed his face wearily before returning to Conference Room 3.
Lin Chao couldn’t help but ask, “You mentioned you wanted to sell the fire drones to Russia, right?”
Tang Rui affirmed, “Yes, I do intend to sell to them, but the price can’t be too low.”
Lin Chao nodded in agreement, acknowledging the political factors at play. A significant disparity in firearms pricing wasn’t acceptable.
The military representative remained silent, cautious not to express any stance that might inadvertently influence the negotiations. This time, Russia was attempting to purchase fire-fighting equipment from a domestic private company. The outcome depended solely on both parties, and the military preferred not to interfere.
Tang Rui re-entered the conference room, prepared to continue negotiations.
“Mr. Tang, we acknowledge the price at which you sold the Middle Easts, but we are unable to accept it. Nevertheless, we understand your constraints and are open to offering technology in exchange for the fire drones. Here’s our technical catalog; please take a look. If you have any questions, feel free to ask me directly,” Andre stated, handing Tang Rui three sheets of paper.
Tang Rui reviewed the catalog, which included outdated systems such as the S200 missile system and As-30 engine technology. It left him unimpressed.
“These are indeed valuable items, but I’m afraid our company doesn’t require them,” Tang Rui replied after a cursory examination.
With a hint of disappointment, Andre inquired, “Then what kind of technology does your company need?”
Tang Rui responded with a grin, “How about providing us with all the technology for the Su-47 Golden Eagle?”