Russia, India formalise defence pact to station up to 3,000 troops in each other’s territory

In a major development that reflects the growing bilateral relations and deepening defence cooperation between the two countries, India and Russia have formalised a pact to station up to 3,000 military personnel in each other’s territory.

Along with troops, the deal also allows ships and aircraft to be stationed in each other’s territory, reported Russia Today.

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The pact, which also covers joint military exercises, training and humanitarian missions, pertains to the Reciprocal Exchange of Logistics Agreement (RELOS).

Ahead of his recent India visit, Russian President Vladimir Putin had signed a law ratifying the intergovernmental agreement between Moscow and New Delhi, aimed at establishing a framework for the deployment of military formations, docking of warships in ports, and use of airspace and airfield infrastructure by military aircraft from both Russia and India.

It also covers logistical support for military formations during mutually agreed-upon joint exercises, training, humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, and other activities.

An official document published on a Russian legal website, the pact will bolster closer defence ties and facilitate smoother operational cooperation between the armed forces of the two countries.