India is changing how it buys defense equipment. The country used to get a lot of its weapons from Russia, but now it’s buying more from countries like the United States and those in Europe. Indian officials say that plans to develop and make helicopters and advanced fighter jets with Russia were put on hold a while ago. Also, an idea to rent a nuclear-powered submarine from Russia for training purposes is unlikely to happen, as India is working on building its own submarines.
Currently, the only items India is waiting for from Russia are two warships and parts for a missile defense system that were ordered before the war in Ukraine started. Last year, only 36% of India’s arms came from Russia, which is a big drop from 76% in 2009, according to a report from a think tank called SIPRI. This shift reflects Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s goal to rely less on Russia, even though India still buys affordable energy from them and supports President Putin diplomatically.
India, which is the largest arms buyer in the world, is now purchasing more from Western companies and is looking to create its own weapons with help from the US and France. Since 2018, India has signed contracts worth nearly $20 billion for US-made weapons. Recently, it approved a deal for $3 billion for 31 long-range drones made by General Atomics, a major defense company from the US.
India’s state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. is about to finalize a deal with General Electric to produce advanced jet engines for new fighter planes. While Russian-made weapons tend to be cheaper, they often require frequent repairs, making them more expensive in the long run.
Experts say India’s military is getting more comfortable with Western technology. The shift away from Russia shows Modi’s foreign policy focus, which tries to balance relations with both America and Russia. The ongoing war in Ukraine has also pushed India to buy fewer Russian weapons.
India still relies on Russia for some military equipment, mainly spare parts for older weapons, which will continue to be used for many years. Additionally, India needs Russian support for nuclear submarines, as Russia is the only country that offers them. Until both sides can discuss nuclear issues, India’s partnership with the West will be incomplete.
