News Summary: Bribery trial of executive opens

THE NEWS: The former head of Italian aerospace and defense giant Finmeccanica, accused by prosecutors of making bribery part of the company culture, went on trial Wednesday for his alleged role in the payment of bribes to secure a crucial helicopter deal in India.

THE DETAILS: Giuseppe Orsi, who resigned in February, faces charges of fraud and corruption in a case that has tarnished the image of the state-controlled company and jeopardized its attempts to expand into the lucrative Indian military market.

THE REPLY: Orsi has denied wrongdoing and didn't attend the opening session. Defendants in Italy are not required to appear their own trials. Finmeccanica also denies wrongdoing and says it's cooperating with investigators.