41.   Franks expected to discuss with Russian defense officials a potential operation against Iraq.

42.   Frustration was apparent as the Israelis sought a consolation goal in the dying minutes but the Russian defense survived with a clean net.

43.   In the northern part of the city, rebels have established substantial defenses in the old university complex, the news agency Interfax said, citing Russian defense sources.

44.   Indian officials, seeking to renew and expand defense contacts, met Tuesday with Russian defense officials to discuss reopening a supply channel that collapsed with the Communist regime.

45.   Israeli media reported that Syria and Egypt were concerned about the Russian visit to Israel, the first by a Russian defense minister.

46.   Japan warmed up after that but the tough Russian defense held firm.

47.   Karpov said most of the gold will be obtained from old radio and electronic hardware that is manufactured chiefly for the Russian defense industry.

48.   Kazakstan abruptly banned all launches from Baikonur Tuesday after a Proton booster rocket carrying a Russian defense ministry satellite exploded shortly after takeoff Monday.

49.   Kazakstan banned all launches from the Baikonur cosmodrome last Tuesday after a Proton booster rocket carrying a Russian defense ministry satellite exploded shortly after takeoff Monday.

50.   Meanwhile, Russia will press the United States for access to Hungarian and Bulgarian air space to fly troop reinforcements to Kosovo, Russian defense officials said.