Defence Shift of India: Is Russia Losing Ground to the U.S.?

Russia’s once-dominant position as India’s primary defence supplier is changing. PM Modi’s visits to the U.S. have paved the way for deeper military cooperation.

India’s strategic partnership with the United States is entering a new phase, reshaping global defence dynamics. With a surge in American arms purchases, This marks a shift where India is no longer a passive buyer. Instead, India is a key player dictating its own terms in arms deals. In the past, India had to acquire military equipment under global conditions. Now, powerful nations compete to sell weapons on India’s terms.

The world remains divided between two major blocs—the Western bloc, led by the U.S., and the Eastern bloc, dominated by Russia. While India maintains close ties with both, its recent defence procurement suggest a strategic tilt toward the U.S. Since 2018, India has signed defence contracts worth nearly $20 billion with America. This reflects a transformation in its military modernization approach.

American Weapons in the Indian Armed Forces

India’s defence acquisitions from the U.S. between 2000 and 2023 have significantly enhanced its military capabilities. The Indian Air Force (IAF) is expanding with progressing deals with the US. It continues to add 28 Apache AH-64E attack helicopters. It also includes 1,354 AGM-114 Hellfire anti-tank missiles. It also adds Stinger portable surface-to-air missiles and 15 Chinook heavy-lift helicopters. Additionally, 13 C-130J Super Hercules transport planet and 11 C-17 Globemaster plane are being added to its arsenal.

The Indian Navy is getting strengthened with several new additions. These include the INS Jalashwa, which is an amphibious transport dock. There are also 24 MH-60R “Romeo” anti-submarine warfare helicopters, 12 P-8I Poseidon maritime surveillance aircraft, and Harpoon anti-ship missiles. Additionally, Sea King helicopters and naval gas turbines are among the enhancements.

For Indian Army, US deals include 145 M-777 ultra-light howitzers and over 1,200 guided artillery shells. They also cover 31 MQ-9B Predator drones, 6 Apache helicopters, Striker Infantry Combat Vehicles (ICVs), and Javelin anti-tank guided missiles. These deals have been important. Looking ahead, India is progressing with procurement plans for six extra P-8I plane. It is also acquiring GE-414 engines for the Tejas Mk-2 and the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). Additionally, India is securing other high-tech weapon systems.

Russia’s Changing Influence in Indian Defence

Despite India’s long-standing reliance on Russian military hardware, its dependency is gradually decreasing. Currently, 60-70% of India’s military equipment is of Russian origin, but arms procurement from Russia has declined in recent years. One of the key reasons behind this shift is India’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative, which aims to boost domestic defense production.

According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), 76% of India’s arms imports came from Russia in 2009. However, this figure has dropped to 36% in 2024. The most notable break from Russia was India’s exit from the Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) program. This move signals a shift in its defense priorities.

Yet, India continues to uphold key military collaborations with Russia. Some of the ongoing projects include the S-400 air defence system and T-90 main battle tanks. They also include the licensed production of Sukhoi-30 fighter jets and MiG-29 fighter jets. Kamov helicopters, T-72 tanks, BMP-2 armoured vehicles, and stealth frigates for the Navy are part of these projects as well. Additionally, India and Russia have jointly developed the BrahMos cruise missile. The AK-203 assault rifle also remains crucial to India’s military strength. Russia has also offered India its fifth-generation fighter jet, but it remains uncertain whether India will accept the proposal.

The Changing Geopolitical Equation

India’s defence shift from Russia to the U.S. reflects a broader transformation in its strategic positioning. Russia is an important partner. However, India is actively diversifying its defence partnerships. It is focusing on American technology and self-reliance. The latest offers from the US for the F-35 show America’s interest in India’s defense market. Similarly, Russia’s offer for the SU-57 highlights its interest as well.