“60-Year Backbone”: Russia Reassures India of Defense Support

In a powerful speech in Delhi, Russian Ambassador Denis Alipov described the “uninterrupted cooperation in defense” as the “backbone of India’s armed forces” for “more than six decades.” This reassurance comes amid rising geopolitical tensions.
Alipov highlighted that this cooperation is now defined by joint production and technology sharing, responsible for approximately 70% of India’s military equipment. He cited the BrahMos missile, Su-30 MKI jets, and T-90 tanks as key successes.
This “unique” partnership, Alipov noted, is “rooted in battlefield experience” that Russia shares with India, proven in operations and joint drills like “Indra.”
Building on this legacy, Russia is now offering to co-produce its Su-57 fifth-generation fighter to support India’s AMCA program, alongside new technologies like drones and anti-drone systems.
This strong statement of support follows claims by Donald Trump that India would halt Russian oil imports. India’s MEA refuted this, prioritizing “national interest,” while Russia’s defense offer reinforces its role as a steadfast partner.