India-Russia reaffirm deep defence ties; explore collaboration in niche technologies

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his Russian counterpart Andrei Belousov on Thursday co-chaired the 22nd session of the India–Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military and Military Technical Cooperation in the national capital, reiterating that bilateral defence ties remain anchored in deep trust, shared principles and mutual respect.

The meeting, held at the Manekshaw Centre, saw both sides explore new avenues of collaboration in niche defence technologies, with Russia expressing readiness to support India’s push towards self-reliance in defence production, ahead of the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Vladimir Putin.

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Singh voiced the Government of India’s determination for capacity building of its indigenous defence industry for both local production and exports, under the vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’. He also stressed new opportunities for enhancing collaboration between the countries across niche technologies.

The Russian Defence Minister emphasised deepening the relationship between both the countries, which is based on mutual trust. He highlighted that both countries are united by many years of friendship and strategic cooperation. He stated that the Russian Defence Industry is ready to support India towards becoming self-reliant in the field of defence production. Minister Belousov also invited the defence minister to visit Russia to co-chair the 23rd session of IRIC-M&MTC in 2026.

At the end, the two Ministers signed the protocol of the 22nd IRIGC-M&MTC meeting, highlighting the ongoing and prospective areas of cooperation.

Prior to the meeting, Singh and the Russian Defence Minister laid the wreath at the National War Memorial and paid respect to the Indian bravery who made the supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation. The visiting dignitary also inspected the Ceremonial Tri-service Guard of Honour.