Russia and India Forge Stronger Military Ties with RELOS Agreement

On the eve of President Vladimir Putin’s state visit to India, the Russian State Duma is set to ratify the Reciprocal Exchange of Logistics Agreement (RELOS). This key military pact, signed in 2025, enhances strategic military cooperation, enabling joint exercises and wider operational access between India and Russia.

As Russia prepares for President Vladimir Putin's anticipated visit to India for the 23rd bilateral summit, the country's lower house of Parliament is poised to ratify a significant military pact with India. This development was reported just before Putin's upcoming state visit on December 4-5.

The Reciprocal Exchange of Logistics Agreement (RELOS), originally sealed in Moscow on February 18, 2025, by Indian Ambassador Vinay Kumar and former Deputy Defence Minister Alexander Fomin, marks a pivotal step in enhancing military cooperation between the two nations.

The RELOS aims to seamlessly coordinate logistics for joint military exercises and disaster relief efforts. Notably, this agreement opens up wider geographic opportunities for both countries, potentially impacting joint exercises in the Arctic region. The pact is anticipated to bolster Russia's and India's strategic presence, challenging foreign influences in key regions.

(With inputs from agencies.)