Strengthening India-Russia Defence Cooperation: Rajnath Singh Meets President Putin

Russian President Vladimir Putin recently welcomed Defence Minister Rajnath Singh at the Kremlin. This meeting took place during the 21st session of the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military and Military Cooperation (IRIGC-M&MTC). Singh conveyed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's warm greetings to President Putin.

During their discussion, Singh and Putin explored various aspects of bilateral defence cooperation. Both leaders acknowledged the immense potential of their partnership, expressing optimism that their combined efforts would lead to significant achievements. Singh remarked, "Friendship between our countries is higher than the highest mountain and deeper than the deepest ocean." He further assured, "India has always stood by its Russian friends and will continue to do so in the future."

Strengthening Defence Ties

Earlier, Singh had a fruitful meeting with his Russian counterpart Andrey Belousov in Moscow. This was part of the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military-Technical Cooperation (IRIGC M&MTC). In an X post, Singh stated, "Had a very productive IRIGC-M&MTC meeting with my Russian counterpart Andrey Belousov in Moscow. Reviewing the full range of bilateral defence ties, we discussed ways to deepen cooperation between both countries. We are committed to further strengthen the India-Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership."

Singh also attended the Commissioning Ceremony of INS Tushil at Russia's Kaliningrad. He expressed his delight in an X post: "Delighted to attend the Commissioning Ceremony of INS Tushil, the latest multi-role stealth-guided missile frigate, at the Yantar Shipyard in Kaliningrad (Russia). The ship is a proud testament to India's growing maritime strength and a significant milestone in long-standing bilateral relations with Russia."

INS Tushil: A Maritime Milestone

The INS Tushil is part of an upgraded Krivak III class frigates series known as Project 1135.6. Six ships from this series are already operational: three Talwar class ships built at Baltisky shipyard, St Petersburg, and three Teg class ships constructed at Yantar shipyard, Kaliningrad. According to a Ministry of Defence release, INS Tushil is the seventh vessel in this series.

This frigate is one of two additional follow-on ships for which a contract was signed in October 2016 between JSC Rosoboronexport, Indian Navy, and the Government of India. The commissioning marks another step forward in India's maritime capabilities.

The meetings and ceremonies underscore India's commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with Russia. Through these engagements, both nations aim to enhance their defence collaboration and reinforce their longstanding relationship.