The defense field of India has found another reason to trust Russia, after both the nations got into 3 crucial deals during Russian PM’s visit to India. The Inter-Governmental Agreement was signed between both the nations regarding some defense weapons. There are several past deals between both the nations and Russia is also seen getting closer to china for defense deals and pacts. The recent visit of Russian PM to India has relinked the relations between the nations. The deals, which are signed this time will bring more strength to the Armed Forces.
The most crucial of all is S-400 Defense System, which has a range of 400 kms and can avert any air born threat in its range. As per the reports, the system will be operated by the Indian Air Force and the deal will cost cr 39000 for 5 such systems. Another deal was related to the 4 stealth frigates. It will be Talwar Class Frigate and will cost about $ 3 billion to India. The agreement states that two of the 4 frigates will be built by Russia and 2 will be built in India with Russian assistance. The last deal was for the Kamov 226-T. A MoU was signed between Rostec State Corporation of Russia and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for manufacturing of Kamov-226-T in a deal of $ 1 billion. The helicopters are efficient in working at high altitudes and will take over the duty in Mountainous and glacier area. They are expected to replace the aging Cheetah and Chetak helicopters of India.
Both the nations have been in a close defense relationship. India’s top aircraft, Su 30-MKI and upcoming FGFA have some Russian roots. While Brahmos was produced by a joint venture of both Indian and Russian defense companies. Not only this, India has got INS Chakra on a lease of 10 years from Russia for $900 million in 2012. Both the nations were found involved in military exercise Indra and Yudh Abhyas. Both the nations are also planning Indra Naval war-games at the end of this year. India’s aircraft carrier, INS Vikramaditya was also procured from Russia. Apart from these, India has shown its reduced interest in Multirole Transport Aircraft due to low capacity in high altitude and cost viability. After this, Russia has offered India to build Nuclear Powered Aircraft carrier Storm.
The emerging need to boost up the defense field of India has two ways to meet the requirement either manufacturing or procuring. India seems to be involved keenly in both. China has also bought S-400 Air Defense Systems from Russia, last year. Moreover, Russia and China have other defense deals also. But the recent inclination of Russia to India shows the bilateral defense links of Russia and constant interest toward India. The deals will fill the voids in Indian Armed Forces and bring out a stronger force in the Asian territory.
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