India and Russia Defence Ties Deepen Amid Global Pressures
Putin’s New Delhi visit reaffirms technology sharing, long-term military cooperation
New Delhi, December 5, 2025 — India and Russia have sent a strong signal to global powers by reaffirming their deep defence partnership during President Vladimir Putin’s two-day state visit to New Delhi. At a time when geopolitical tensions and Western pressures are reshaping global alignments, both nations underlined their commitment to strategic autonomy, expanding defence collaboration, and accelerating technology transfer.
Just hours before the 23rd Annual India–Russia Summit, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov signed a new protocol that outlines ongoing projects and a roadmap for future military engagements. The agreement reinforces the long-standing trust between the two nations, especially at a time when India is navigating a complex global environment shaped by US–China rivalry and fractured European security dynamics.
Defence Deals Take Centre Stage
Defence cooperation dominated the summit conversations. India has expressed strong interest in acquiring more S-400 Triumf missile systems, following their operational success during Operation Sindoor (May 2025) where they successfully neutralized Pakistani aerial threats. Sources indicate that New Delhi is planning to procure 280 additional S-400 missiles worth ₹10,000 crore to replenish stocks and build strategic reserves.
Talks also expanded into next-generation technology, including the S-500 air defence system and Russia’s Su-57 fifth-generation fighter jet. Although a senior Russian official cautioned that immediate S-500 deliveries may be difficult, Moscow has reiterated its willingness to support India’s long-term air defence modernization.
The India and Russia BrahMos joint venture once again emerged as a central pillar of defence cooperation. With cumulative contracts exceeding ₹58,000 crore, BrahMos Aerospace continues to position India as a credible missile power. Putin emphasized in an interview with India Today TV that Russia is “not merely selling technology but sharing it,” highlighting the uniqueness of the India–Russia defence partnership. This includes joint production lines, R&D exchanges, and integration into India’s Atmanirbhar defence ecosystem.
Another significant milestone is Russia’s ratification of the Reciprocal Exchange of Logistics Support (RELOS) agreement. This pact enables the two militaries to access each other’s bases for refuelling, repairs, supplies, training, and humanitarian operations—enhancing interoperability and operational reach across the Indian Ocean Region and Eurasian theatres.
Balancing Act Under US Tariffs and Pressure
Putin’s visit comes at a sensitive geopolitical moment. The United States has been intensifying pressure on India, especially after President Donald Trump imposed 50% tariffs on Indian imports in August 2025. The move was widely interpreted as retaliation for India’s continued purchase of discounted Russian crude.
Putin dismissed Western criticism, pointing out that the US itself buys billions of dollars’ worth of Russian nuclear fuel. “If the US can do it, why not India?” he asked, underscoring the perceived double standards in global energy politics.
Despite sanctions and trade disruptions, India and Russia are pushing towards a $100 billion bilateral trade target by 2030, up from $68.7 billion currently. The new strategy focuses on boosting Indian exports—pharmaceuticals, textiles, auto components, and agricultural products—into the Russian market.
Belousov reaffirmed that the Russian defence industry is ready to support India’s vision under Atmanirbhar Bharat, particularly in areas such as frigate construction, Sukhoi-30MKI upgrades, helicopter production, and ammunition manufacturing.
Strategic Implications: A Stronger Eurasian Axis
India and Russia defence relations span over five decades and include landmark cooperation such as the T-90 tank program, Akula-class submarine lease, and long-range missile platforms. The latest agreements signal a clear continuity in this partnership even as India diversifies procurement by engaging Western suppliers.
Strategic analysts believe the renewed momentum strengthens India’s multi-aligned foreign policy—a framework that avoids exclusive blocs while securing national interests across regions. With China’s assertiveness on the northern borders and increasing maritime challenges in the Indian Ocean, India’s reliance on Russia for critical defence technologies remains vital.
The expected new contracts—particularly in missile systems, logistics cooperation, and fighter jet upgrades—are likely to reshape regional security dynamics. The partnership also contributes to a more multipolar world order, balancing Western dominance and providing India with strategic flexibility.
President Putin’s 2025 visit reinforces that India–Russia defence ties remain resilient despite global turbulence, sanctions, and shifting power equations. With deeper technology sharing, renewed missile procurements, and expanded logistics cooperation, New Delhi and Moscow are laying the groundwork for a next-generation defence partnership.
As both nations navigate global pressures, their collaboration signals a pragmatic alignment rooted in trust, strategic autonomy, and long-term national interests. The outcomes of this summit could set the tone for the next decade of Eurasian security and India’s defence modernization goals.
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