Indian Defence Firms Eyeing Russia: Navigating Strategic Ties Amidst Sanctions Risk

Top Indian arms executives from companies like Adani Defence reportedly attended meetings in Russia to explore joint ventures, despite official denials. The meetings discussed potential collaborations, such as manufacturing spares and developing advanced defense technologies. However, challenges remain due to India's Western ties and sanctions risk.

Top executives from leading Indian defense companies, including Adani Defence and Bharat Forge, reportedly engaged in discussions with Russian counterparts to explore joint ventures, despite official denials. This marks a significant move in reorienting India's longstanding defense ties amidst geopolitical complexities.

The discussions, occurring during a rare visit of Indian defense leaders to Russia, focused on potential collaborations like manufacturing spares for Russian-origin weapon systems and setting up production units in India. This aligns with India's ambition to become a global manufacturing hub, although it risks complicating Western affiliations.

Diplomatic challenges persist as these potential collaborations could clash with India's Western defense ties and expose firms to secondary sanctions. Despite official denials, anonymous sources confirmed the participation of significant defense leaders, highlighting the sensitive nature of the evolving defense cooperation landscape.

(With inputs from agencies.)