In July 2024, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s first international visit following his recent re-election took him to Moscow, a move that raised eyebrows in Western capitals. This visit underscored the enduring significance of Russia in India’s foreign policy, despite India’s growing ties with the United States and other Western nations.
The warm welcome Modi received, including a personal tour of President Vladimir Putin’s residence and their signature bear hug, symbolized the deep-rooted connection between these two nations that has withstood the test of time and geopolitical shifts. The India-Russia relationship, often described as a “special and privileged strategic partnership,” has its roots in the Cold War era when the Soviet Union was a key ally and primary arms supplier to India.
This relationship has demonstrated remarkable resilience, adapting to major global changes including the dissolution of the Soviet Union and India’s increasing alignment with the West.
At the core of this enduring partnership lies a multifaceted cooperation spanning defense, energy, technology, and geopolitical strategy. Russia continues to be a crucial source of military hardware for India, the world’s largest weapons importer.
The recent announcement by Rostec, the Russian state-owned arms giant, to manufacture armor-piercing tank rounds in India exemplifies the depth and evolving nature of this defense cooperation. This collaboration not only ensures India’s military preparedness but also aligns with its “Make in India” initiative, promoting domestic defense manufacturing.
In the energy sector, India has dramatically increased its import of Russian crude oil, with figures skyrocketing from $2.5 billion in 2021 to an astounding $46.5 billion in 2023. This surge, occurring despite Western sanctions on Russia following its invasion of Ukraine, highlights India’s pragmatic approach to securing its energy needs.
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