Former Foreign Secretary and Rajya Sabha MP Harsh Vardhan Shringla stated on Thursday that Russia continues to be India’s largest supplier of advanced military technology. Speaking at an event on India-Russia Strategic Partnerships in New Delhi, Shringla highlighted that bilateral defense collaboration has evolved from simple imports to joint development, co-production, and meaningful technology transfers, reflecting India’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Shringla praised the enduring strength of India-Russia relations, emphasizing their resilience amid global upheavals, shifting geopolitical dynamics, and even pandemics that disrupted borders. He noted that decades of trust, mutual respect, and strategic patience form the foundation of this long-standing partnership. He outlined six core pillars sustaining the relationship, starting with political and diplomatic alignment, where annual summits serve as a key platform. The July 2024 Moscow meeting reaffirmed the countries’ commitment to a shared strategic vision with tangible goals through 2030.
Shringla added that Prime Minister Modi receiving Russia’s Order of Saint Andrew was more than ceremonial recognition; it symbolized the deep mutual trust built through years of collaboration. Beyond summits, ministerial exchanges, the 2+2 dialogue, and cooperation in multilateral forums such as the UN, G20, BRICS, and SCO continue to strengthen the partnership. Russia has consistently supported India’s bid for a permanent UN Security Council seat, reinforcing its influence in global discussions.
Defense and security collaboration, Shringla explained, forms the backbone of the bilateral relationship. While Russia remains India’s largest supplier of advanced military systems, the partnership has shifted toward joint development and technology transfers, advancing India’s self-reliance goals. The BrahMos missile exemplifies how the two nations innovate together to achieve strategic advantages that neither could achieve alone.
Shringla also highlighted the delivery of S-400 air defense systems despite global supply challenges, reflecting continued commitment even under external pressures. During his recent visit to North Bengal during Durga Puja celebrations, he noted public acknowledgment of Operation Sindoor and the BrahMos missile in local pandals, showing strong public support and pride in India’s defense capabilities and its enduring partnership with Russia.
