Story perspectives

Putin's India Visit: Defense Talks Amid Shifting Alliances

12/2/2025

Summary

Story summary

Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit India on December 4-5, 2023, for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit.
The summit will focus on discussions regarding the purchase of Su-57 fighter jets and S-500 air defense systems.
India aims to balance its historic defense ties with Russia while engaging with the U.S. and Europe amid U.S. pressure.
Indian Defense Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh reaffirmed India's commitment to strategic autonomy, despite a decline in Russian arms imports from 72% in 2010-14 to 36% recently.
India currently operates over 200 Russian fighter jets and S-400 batteries, indicating ongoing military collaboration.

History

Historical Context

Since 2014, India has relied heavily on Russia for defense, with Russian arms comprising 72% of its imports. This partnership includes over 200 Russian fighter jets and advanced S-400 systems. However, by 2023, Russian arms exports to India fell to 36%, reflecting India's need to balance its historic ties with emerging alliances amid U.S. pressures, highlighting the evolving global defense landscape.

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Story summary

Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit India on December 4-5, 2023, for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit.
The summit will focus on discussions regarding the purchase of Su-57 fighter jets and S-500 air defense systems.
India aims to balance its historic defense ties with Russia while engaging with the U.S. and Europe amid U.S. pressure.
Indian Defense Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh reaffirmed India's commitment to strategic autonomy, despite a decline in Russian arms imports from 72% in 2010-14 to 36% recently.
India currently operates over 200 Russian fighter jets and S-400 batteries, indicating ongoing military collaboration.

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