In early December, the Indian government in New Delhi denied a headline that claimed the country had agreed to lease a $2‑billion nuclear‑powered submarine from Russia. The Press Information Bureau (PIB) said on X that the story was “misleading” and clarified that no new contract had been signed. It pointed out that the lease mentioned by Bloomberg actually stems from a deal inked in 2019, with the submarine slated to arrive in 2028.
Bloomberg ran the piece just before Russian President Vladimir Putin’s two‑day visit to Delhi, suggesting India was about to seal the lease. In a separate note, the PIB noted that India‑Russia relations have remained robust and steady for 78 years, sharing a dedication to a multipolar world and broadening cooperation beyond the usual military, nuclear and space domains.
Bilateral trade between the two nations has surged over the past couple of years. During President Putin’s trip, discussions will center on boosting Indian exports and forging new collaboration models. Both sides are also keen on deepening regional ties, especially with Russia’s Far East, and advancing connectivity initiatives such as the International North‑South Transport Corridor, the Chennai‑Vladivostok Eastern Maritime Corridor and the Northern Sea Route.
Defence is highlighted as a cornerstone of the strong friendship and strategic partnership. Military and technical cooperation has evolved from simple buyer‑seller arrangements to joint research, development and production of advanced weapons systems. Russia supplies defense equipment, engines, spare parts and components, and several platforms—like the T‑90 tanks and Su‑30MKI fighters—are assembled or produced in India. The two countries are also exploring co‑development and co‑production opportunities, with the possibility of exporting systems such as the Brahmos missile. sps/vd
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