In a speech emphasizing deep operational integration, Russian Ambassador Denis Alipov highlighted joint military exercises as a key pillar of the “unique” defense partnership with India.
Alipov pointed to the just-concluded “Indra” trilateral exercises in Rajasthan, as well as India’s “participation in multilateral naval exercises such as Milan and the SCO anti-terrorist drills peace mission.”
He argued this shared activity is “rooted in battlefield experience” and forms the “backbone” of the 60-year defense relationship.
Building on this, Alipov announced a new defense push, including the Su-57 fighter, drones, and other “force multipliers,” expanding on the 70% of India’s military hardware that is already of Russian origin.
This reminder of deep military-to-military ties comes as a counter to US pressure over the oil trade, showcasing a level of practical partnership that Washington does not offer.