Russia and India Strengthen Military Ties with New Pact Ahead of Putin's Visit

In a pivotal development, Russia's State Duma has ratified a military agreement with India, known as the Reciprocal Exchange of Logistic Support (RELOS), just before President Vladimir Putin's visit to New Delhi. This pact aims to streamline military logistics and enhance cooperation between the two nations. It will facilitate the deployment of troops, warships, and aircraft, while also regulating logistics for joint exercises and humanitarian efforts. The agreement signifies a deepening of strategic ties between Russia and India, promising to strengthen their military collaboration significantly.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 2, 2025, 19:04 IST

Key Military Agreement Ratified

In a significant move, Russia's State Duma has approved a crucial military agreement with India, coinciding with President Vladimir Putin's upcoming visit to New Delhi on December 4-5. This pact, known as the Reciprocal Exchange of Logistic Support (RELOS), was initially signed on February 18 and was presented to the Duma for ratification by Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin last week.

Vyacheslav Volodin, the Speaker of the State Duma, emphasized the importance of the relationship between Russia and India, stating that the ratification marks a vital step towards enhancing mutual cooperation and strengthening ties.

The RELOS agreement outlines the protocols for the deployment of military units, naval vessels, and aircraft between the two nations, along with the logistics involved in such operations.

This agreement will not only govern the movement of troops and equipment but also their logistical arrangements. It is intended to be utilized during joint military exercises, training sessions, humanitarian missions, and disaster relief operations, among other scenarios as mutually agreed upon.

According to a statement from the Russian Cabinet of Ministers, the ratification of this agreement will promote the shared use of airspace and facilitate port visits by Russian and Indian naval forces, thereby bolstering military collaboration between the two countries.