New Delhi: In a move signaling deepening strategic ties, Russia's lower house of parliament, the State Duma, ratified a key military pact with India ahead of President Vladimir Putin's state visit to New Delhi on December 4-5. The Reciprocal Exchange of Logistic Support (RELOS) agreement, signed on February 18, streamlines military cooperation between the two nations.
The RELOS agreement establishes procedures for the reciprocal dispatch of military formations, warships, and aircraft between Russia and India, and organizes mutual logistical support. This includes the exchange of fuel, spare parts, and access to maintenance facilities, airbases, and naval ports. The established procedures will apply during joint exercises, training, humanitarian aid missions, and disaster relief operations. The agreement will also facilitate mutual use of airspace and port calls by warships.
Vyacheslav Volodin, Speaker of the State Duma, emphasized the strategic importance of the relationship, stating that the ratification is "another step toward reciprocity and, of course, the development of our relations". The Russian government believes the agreement will strengthen military cooperation between Russia and India.
The ratification comes as Putin prepares for his first visit to New Delhi in four years, seeking to reinforce ties amidst sanctions pressure and evolving global alignments. India continues to rely heavily on Russian defense equipment and spare parts, making continued cooperation strategically important.
During the visit, discussions are expected on a range of issues, including defense, nuclear energy, trade, and counter-terrorism. India may seek to purchase additional S-400 missile systems and Su-57 fighter aircraft. Both countries are also working to expand nuclear cooperation and advance mobility and connectivity agreements. A labor mobility agreement is expected to be signed, establishing a framework for the legal migration of skilled Indian workers to Russia.
The visit also aims to address trade imbalances and promote economic cooperation. Dmitry Peskov, the Russian Presidential press secretary, expressed confidence that trade volume between the two countries will reach $100 billion by 2030. Discussions will also focus on de-dollarization, maritime corridors, and regional security.
Despite pressure from the United States to reduce its defense ties with Russia, India has maintained a balanced stance. Peskov emphasized the need to insulate bilateral ties from external pressure, affirming India's sovereignty and the historical friendship between the two nations.
While no new defense pacts will be signed during the visit, ongoing defense acquisitions and future collaborations will be discussed. With over 50% of India's in-service military platforms of Russian origin, the country is keen to ensure a steady supply of equipment and spare parts.
