India-Russia Relations
Defence, Energy, and Diplomatic Pillars
India-Russia relations are among the most durable in India's foreign policy landscape. Rooted in the Soviet-era arms supply relationship, they have evolved to encompass energy, nuclear power, space, pharmaceuticals, and diplomatic coordination in multilateral bodies.
- The India-Russia relationship is formally a "Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership"
- Defence: Russia supplied Arihant-class nuclear submarine technology, BrahMos cruise missile (joint venture), S-400 Triumf air defence system, MiG-21/29/Su-30MKI aircraft, T-90 tanks
- Energy: Russia became India's No.1 crude oil supplier (2022 onwards), providing up to 36% of India's crude at discounts of up to $20/barrel below Brent during peak discount periods
- Nuclear: Russia is building 6 units at Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant (KNPP) — among the largest ongoing nuclear cooperation programs in the world
- Diplomatic: India and Russia coordinate at BRICS, SCO, and on issues like multipolarity and reforming global governance
● Tracked since February 18, 2026 · last seen May 14, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes
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