Russia's Crucial Role in India's Operation Sindoor: Decades of Strategic Defense Partnership

This historical partnership has transformed significantly through the years.

New Delhi:

The Indo-Russian alliance is expected to gain fresh momentum this week as President Vladimir Putin visits India for a summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on December 4-5. India's ambitious Sudarshan Chakra, often compared to the Israeli 'iron dome', may see enhanced cooperation as part of the renewed "privileged strategic partnership".

During the recently concluded Operation Sindoor, this enduring relationship once again demonstrated its significance, providing India with a decisive battlefield advantage. Russian technology—from missiles to air defense systems, fighter jets to electronic warfare equipment—played a crucial role in India's operational success. The upcoming Modi-Putin summit in New Delhi will highlight Indo-Russian military ties with greater emphasis. India is seeking to acquire additional S-400 surface-to-air missile systems from Russia, as these weapons proved highly effective during Operation Sindoor.

"The defense collaboration between India and Russia represents a very long-standing partnership," stated Dr. VK Saraswat, distinguished missile scientist and NITI Aayog Member, in an exclusive interview with NDTV. "I clearly recall from the 1970s when the Indian Air Force utilized SAM-2 missiles supplied by Russia. We operated Russian aircraft including MiG-21, MiG-23, MiG-27, MiG-29, MiG-25—the entire MiG series. Tanks like the T-90 and numerous other technologies have been provided to India, supporting our defense program."

This historical relationship has evolved dramatically over the decades. What began as a buyer-seller dynamic has transformed into a robust technology partnership. "In the last two or three decades, this collaboration has progressed from merely purchasing equipment to establishing technology collaboration, resulting in the development and production of the BrahMos missile," Dr. Saraswat explained.

The BrahMos, named after the Brahmaputra and Moscow rivers, represents a prime example of Indo-Russian synergy. During Operation Sindoor, its performance was exceptional. "The pinpoint accuracy with which we could strike targets in enemy territory was due to the capabilities of BrahMos as a supersonic cruise missile, which remains unmatched worldwide," he emphasized.

BrahMos was not the only significant asset. India's recently acquired S-400 air defense system from Russia proved to be a game-changer. "It was extensively utilized in countering incoming enemy missiles and drones," Dr. Saraswat noted.

The S-400 batteries, integrated with advanced radars and electronic warfare systems, created an impenetrable shield, keeping hostile aircraft far from Indian airspace. "The complete air defense network, including radars and electronic warfare systems, kept their aircraft well away from our boundaries," he added.

On the offensive front, the Sukhoi fighter jets, a cornerstone of India's air power manufactured domestically under Russian license, delivered decisive strikes. "When we conducted direct attacks, the role played by Sukhois—major aircraft in our arsenal of Russian origin now manufactured in our own country—was significant," said Dr. Saraswat.

Operation Sindoor is not an isolated example. The India-Russia partnership encompasses the entire spectrum of strategic technologies, from nuclear energy to space exploration and submarine development. Russian reactors power India's civilian nuclear program, while space cooperation has facilitated satellite launches and advanced research. The two nations have also collaborated on submarines, strengthening India's maritime security.

"I could enumerate many such products, but the India-Russia defense collaboration has consistently remained paramount," Dr. Saraswat affirmed. Beyond government-to-government relationships, private industry collaboration is now accelerating. "The current industrial growth is occurring because numerous Indian companies are collaborating with Russian counterparts in many critical defense technologies," he said.

As geopolitical uncertainties persist, India's reliance on Russia as a trusted partner remains unwavering. "I believe it is the most dependable collaboration. It has functioned exceptionally well and has stood the test of time. We are very satisfied with this partnership and hope it continues to strengthen," asserts Dr. Saraswat.

Operation Sindoor will be remembered not only for its tactical excellence but also as evidence of a friendship that has remained steadfast for decades. From the Moscow River to the Brahmaputra, the bond between India and Russia continues to flow strong—powering missiles, energizing reactors, and securing skies.