Indo-Russian defence cooperation is set to gain fresh momentum as President Vladimir Putin arrives in India for the Annual Summit on December 4–5. The visit comes on the heels of Operation Sindoor, where Russian-origin platforms once again underscored their critical role in India’s battlefield dominance. From the S-400 air defence systems to Sukhoi fighter jets and BrahMos cruise missiles, Russian technology formed the backbone of India’s strategic edge.

According to Dr. V.K. Saraswat, eminent missile scientist and Member of NITI Aayog, the relationship has matured far beyond a traditional buyer-seller arrangement. What began in the 1970s with SAM-2 missiles and MiG aircraft has evolved into a deep technology partnership. The co-development of the BrahMos missile marks a milestone, offering India unmatched precision strike capability.

During Operation Sindoor, the S-400 systems proved decisive in neutralising enemy drones and missiles, while Sukhois manufactured in India delivered critical offensive capability. Cooperation now spans nuclear energy, space, submarines, and advanced electronics, with Indian private industry increasingly partnering Russian firms.

As global geopolitics grows more complex, India views Russia as a dependable, long-term partner. The upcoming summit is expected to further reinforce this “privileged strategic partnership,” carrying a proven friendship into a new era.

Indo-Russian defence cooperation is set to gain fresh momentum as President Vladimir Putin arrives in India for the Annual Summit on December 4–5. The visit comes on the heels of Operation Sindoor, where Russian-origin platforms once again underscored their critical role in India’s battlefield dominance. From the S-400 air defence systems to Sukhoi fighter jets and BrahMos cruise missiles, Russian technology formed the backbone of India’s strategic edge.

According to Dr. V.K. Saraswat, eminent missile scientist and Member of NITI Aayog, the relationship has matured far beyond a traditional buyer-seller arrangement. What began in the 1970s with SAM-2 missiles and MiG aircraft has evolved into a deep technology partnership. The co-development of the BrahMos missile marks a milestone, offering India unmatched precision strike capability.

During Operation Sindoor, the S-400 systems proved decisive in neutralising enemy drones and missiles, while Sukhois manufactured in India delivered critical offensive capability. Cooperation now spans nuclear energy, space, submarines, and advanced electronics, with Indian private industry increasingly partnering Russian firms.

As global geopolitics grows more complex, India views Russia as a dependable, long-term partner. The upcoming summit is expected to further reinforce this “privileged strategic partnership,” carrying a proven friendship into a new era.