India- Russia Joint Naval Exercise and Strategic Significance
India and Russia will participate in a joint naval drill as part of the Milan exercise, a multinational naval exercise hosted by India since 1995. The upcoming edition marks the 13th Milan exercise and will feature Russia’s Pacific Fleet frigate Marshal Shaposhnikov operating in the Bay of Bengal. India has extended invitations to 135 countries, including the US, Japan, and Australia, reinforcing the inclusive and multilateral nature of the exercise.
India’s Foreign Policy Approach
By conducting this exercise with Russia, India sends a strong signal of its non-aligned and strategic autonomy stance. The move reflects New Delhi’s ability to maintain productive relations with Russia, Europe, and other global players, even when these relationships intersect with geopolitical tensions involving the US.
Trade Strategy and Tariff Diplomacy
India has also leveraged global trade dynamics to its advantage. Amid US-imposed tariffs and Europe’s concerns over Russia, India secured progress on a long-pending trade deal with the European Union, aiming for zero-percent tariffs. This reflects a calculated diplomatic strategy that balances economic and geopolitical interests.
- Energy Trade and Sanctions Navigation
India plans to purchase around 150,000 barrels per day of Russian oil for domestic consumption, while continuing to refine oil from other sources for export to Europe. This dual strategy allows India to meet its energy needs while effectively navigating around US sanctions on Russian oil.
Defence and Aviation Cooperation
In the aviation sector, Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) is collaborating with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to manufacture the Sukhoi Superjet 100 passenger aircraft in India. India has already acquired six ready-made aircraft, and the partnership provides Russia access to a manufacturing base and market for sanction-resilient components.
Global Reactions and Strategic Outcome
US officials have expressed frustration after imposing sanctions on India for its trade with Russia, only to see New Delhi secure favourable trade arrangements with Europe. This development is seen as a demonstration of India’s effective non-aligned strategy, which has prompted the US to re-engage in trade discussions with India.
