New Delhi: India and Russia have agreed to deepen their long standing defence relationship as Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in New Delhi for the 23rd India Russia Annual Summit. The visit marks Putin’s first trip to India in four years and comes at a time when global geopolitical tensions are high and Western countries continue to pressure New Delhi over its ties with Moscow.
Officials said both sides discussed expanding defence cooperation in advanced areas such as air defence systems, fighter jet upgrades and missile technology. India is exploring options for additional S 400 air defence systems and talks also included the next generation S 500. However officials indicated that the S 500 may not be immediately available.
Russia also offered India its latest Su 57 stealth fighter jets. While discussions have begun India has not made a final decision. Upgrades to Sukhoi Su 30MKI aircraft and expansion of joint projects like BrahMos missile systems remain key priorities.
Both governments said cooperation would focus on joint production and technology transfer in line with India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. Russian defence officials described the partnership as one based on trust and mutual respect.
The visit also included talks beyond defence. Energy supplies trade and fertilizer production deals were discussed as both nations seek to expand cooperation in non military sectors. Reports suggest Indian fertilizer companies are preparing agreements with the Russian firm Uralchem to establish manufacturing partnerships.
At the same time the Indian government clarified that reports of a new two billion dollar submarine deal were misleading. The submarine under discussion is part of a previously signed lease and is expected to be delivered by 2028.
Despite growing partnership the visit has drawn attention internationally. The United States and the European Union have expressed concern over India expanding defence ties with Russia while the war in Ukraine continues. India has maintained that its decisions are based on national interest and strategic autonomy.
Observers say the visit highlights India’s balancing act between its traditional defence partner Russia and its growing ties with Western nations. Analysts believe the outcomes of this visit may shape India’s defence modernisation plans for the coming decade.