India and Russia deepen ties with record trade and defence deals
India and Russia have strengthened their ties across trade, defence, and logistics in recent years. Bilateral trade hit a record $68.7 billion in the financial year 2024-25, marking a significant rise in economic cooperation. Both nations are also deepening military collaboration and expanding transport routes to boost connectivity. Trade and economic relations are overseen by the Intergovernmental Commission, which manages cooperation in trade, science, technology, and military affairs. The two countries have held 22 annual summits, with the 23rd scheduled for December 4-5, 2025, in India. High-level discussions continue through the 2+2 Dialogue, involving the foreign and defence ministers of both nations.
Defence partnerships remain a key focus. India produces the Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jets under licence at HAL facilities. The T-90 tanks, locally named 'Bhishma,' are also manufactured in India under Russian licence. Additionally, the AK-203 rifles are being produced in Korwa as part of the 'Make in India' initiative. India has further procured the advanced S-400 Triumf long-range air defence system from Russia. Joint military exercises, such as INDRA-2025 and India’s participation in Zapad-2025, reinforce defence ties. The BrahMos cruise missile, developed jointly by DRDO and NPOM, stands as a major success in defence collaboration. Efforts to enhance connectivity include the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), a 7,200 km multimodal route linking India to Russia via Iran. The Chennai-Vladivostok Maritime Corridor (CVMC) shortens the sea route from 8,675 nautical miles to about 5,600 nautical miles. India is also training its seafarers at Russian facilities for polar-water navigation, enabling participation in the Arctic’s Northern Sea Route (NSR).
The growing trade volume and defence projects highlight the expanding partnership between India and Russia. Upcoming summits and joint exercises will further solidify cooperation in strategic areas. Enhanced transport corridors and training initiatives are set to improve logistics and economic exchanges in the coming years.
