India–Russia Defence Talks Deepen as Indian Arms Executives Hold Rare Meetings in Moscow

Top Indian defence executives held rare meetings in Russia this year. The talks focused on new joint work on weapons and military parts. The meetings took place in Moscow in late October. They came ahead of a planned visit by Russian President Vladimir Putin to India. The main keyword for this story is India Russia defence talks.

The meetings mattered because they were the first since the war in Ukraine began. According to Reuters, senior officials from India’s defence ministry joined the visit. India is trying to shift its long defence ties with Russia toward joint development. But any new deal with Moscow could affect India’s growing links with Western arms makers. Many Western nations still see India’s strong ties with Russia as a barrier to sharing key military technology.

India Russia Defence Talks Show Push for Joint Production

The India Russia defence talks included discussions on parts for the MiG‑29 jet and other Russian-made systems. Short plans were shared on how Indian firms could make spares inside India. Some Russian officials also proposed building production units in India. These units could later export equipment back to Russia.

Sources told Reuters that the talks happened on the sidelines of an official defence‑industry visit. The Indian delegation was led by Defence Production Secretary Sanjeev Kumar. The meetings included representatives from large Indian groups, state firms, and defence startups. They discussed drones, AI tools, helicopter parts, and tank components.

Executives from companies like Bharat Forge and Adani Defence were mentioned by industry insiders. But spokespeople denied any such participation. India’s Defence Ministry did not comment. The talks came as both nations announced plans to focus more on joint research and joint production.

Russia remains India’s biggest arms supplier. Around 36% of Indian military gear is Russian in origin. India wants to reduce this share over time. But joint production with Russia allows India to keep its ageing Russian systems functioning. It also helps India grow its domestic defence industry.

Impact of the Talks and Sanctions Concerns

Industry officials say new deals with Russia carry risks. The main concern is secondary sanctions. These are penalties the West can place on companies that work with Russia. According to Reuters, some Indian firms already faced pressure after artillery shells shipped to Europe were later sent to Ukraine.

Indian officials say they can help with diplomacy. But companies must judge the political risks themselves. India wants stronger defence ties with both Russia and the West. This creates a narrow path for Indian firms. Any major move toward Moscow could affect growing partnerships with the United States and Europe.

These India Russia defence talks show how complex India’s position is. The country wants advanced weapons from Western partners. Yet it also relies heavily on Russian platforms. Joint production may help India balance both sides. But it will remain a slow and careful process.

The India Russia defence talks will shape how India builds its military for years to come. They highlight India’s push for self‑reliance while managing global pressure. The talks also show the strong grip Russia still has on India’s defence sector.

Thought you’d like to know-

Q1: What were the India Russia defence talks about?

The talks focused on joint production of parts for Russian-made weapons. They also covered new units that could be built in India. The aim was to support long-term defence cooperation.

Q2: Why are these talks important?

They were the first high-level defence meetings since the Ukraine war began. They also came before President Putin’s scheduled visit. The talks may set the path for future joint work.

Q3: Which systems were discussed?

Sources said discussions included MiG‑29 parts and other Russian-made air defence tools. They also explored drones, AI systems, and helicopter parts. These are key areas for India’s defence needs.

Q4: Are sanctions a risk for Indian firms?

Yes, officials say sanctions remain a concern. Western nations closely watch any new deals with Russia. Companies must weigh the political and financial risks.

Q5: Who joined the delegation?

Senior officials from India’s defence ministry joined the visit. Executives from major defence firms and startups also attended. They joined meetings held on October 29–30.