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India Could Win UNSC Seat as it Deepens Defence Deal with Russia: Military Expert

© AP Photo / Manish SwarupRussian President Vladimir Putin, left, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi greet each other before their meeting in New Delhi, India on Dec. 6, 2021.
Russian President Vladimir Putin, left, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi greet each other before their meeting in New Delhi, India on Dec. 6, 2021. - Sputnik India, 1920, 25.03.2025
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In an interview with Sputnik India, Russian military expert Igor Korotchenko discussed Russia-India military ties, India’s quest for advanced weapons and its bid for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council with Russia’s support.
India Could Win UNSC Seat as it Deepens Defence Deal with Russia: Military Expert81and India are redefining their military-technical cooperation (MTC) by moving beyond the traditional buyer-seller model, military analyst, editor-in-chief of National Defence magazine and Director of the Centre for Analysis of World Arms Trade Igor Korotchenko told Sputnik India. Since 2022, the bilateral partnership between the nations has evolved towards co-developing advanced weapons systems and expanding into global markets, he said.
India has transformed into a "great power" with high expectations for advanced weapon systems across all military branches — the army, navy and air force, he said.

"India is a highly demanding partner in the field of military-technical cooperation," Korotchenko said, highlighting the nation's pursuit of cutting-edge technology.

A cornerstone of their collaboration is the delivery of Russia’s S-400 air defence systems, which are crucial for India's aerospace defence shield.
"These S-400 air defence systems form the foundation of India's aerospace defence shield," Korotchenko said. "In addition to the five regimental sets currently contracted, India is expected to order more of these systems, and Russia will deliver them with the same quality as before."

Joint Development and Indigenous Production

Russia is not only delivering cutting-edge technology, but also focused on joint development and local production of military defence, aligning with New Delhi's 'Make in India' initiative.

"Russia is continuing to build missile frigates for India. One such frigate, Tushil, was delivered to the Indian Navy last year and has already entered service," Korotchenko said. "Another such vessel is under construction, and similar ships will be built at Indian shipyards under Russian licenses."

The collaboration also centres on high-tech military equipment such as fighter jets, helicopters and even small arms.

"Several service contracts are also being signed, such as those for replacing tank engines," Korotchenko said.

Russia is working with India to develop a fifth-generation fighter jet based on the Su-57. But Korotchenko stressed that India’s key requirement for the project is the production of a two-seat variant, as well as full-scale manufacturing in India.

"Russia understands that India is not just looking to buy weapons, but also to gain know-how and technology to enhance its technological sovereignty and independence," Korotchenko elaborated. "Russia is ready to collaborate as far as India is willing to go in this technological partnership."

Russia has also been helping India with indigenous production of Kalashnikov assault rifles. That aligns with India's broader strategic goal of boosting its defence self-reliance while benefiting from Russia's unparalleled expertise in arms production.

Exporting to Third Countries

The evolving Russia-India defence relationship is also creating new opportunities for both countries in international arms markets, especially in Africa and Southeast Asia.
Korotchenko pointed to the BrahMos missile, a joint venture between India and Russia which has already been successfully marketed to other countries.

"BrahMos missile operates in India, and its products are already being sold to foreign buyers," he said. "There are mechanisms for expanding exports to third countries and possibly creating new production lines and technologies for other types of weaponry."

Both countries are poised to explore further opportunities for joint weapon development and exports, leveraging their strategic partnership to tap into new markets.

Strategic Importance for Global Diplomacy

Beyond the military aspect, Russia's support for India in its quest for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council is a significant diplomatic angle.
Korotchenko noted that Russia views its defence partnership with India not only as a matter of bilateral interest but also as a strategic move to help India secure its position on the global stage.

“I believe this will happen—India will secure a permanent seat on the UN Security Council with veto power,” Korotchenko said.

As the Russia-India defence relationship deepens, both nations are gearing up for joint innovation and production.
“This will involve joint weapons development, with the transfer of Russian know-how to India’s defence industry. The focus is on joint production and exporting these systems to global markets, creating a model of strategic military-technical cooperation,” Korotchenko said.
Russia's Pantsir-S air defense system. File photo - Sputnik India, 1920, 17.02.2025
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