The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has had a significant impact on Russian defence export earnings and the country's military assets. As a result, Russian defence firms are unable to fulfil the service commitment they have made to their overseas customers. To resolve this issue, the Russian defence industry has turned to India's arms industry to source spares and human capital for their clients as specified in their agreements.
According to a report by the Indian Defense News, ROSTEC, the Russian defence conglomerate in charge of Moscow's weapons industry, has contacted Indian firms about supplying them with artillery, tanks, air-defence systems, and other exported equipment. There is also a demand for Indian engineers with technical knowledge of these mechanisms, as India has extensive experience in using, manufacturing and servicing Russian equipment.
ROSTEC has contacted Indian companies, including Armoured Vehicles Nigam, Advanced Weapons & Equipment India, and Yantra India. These companies have been known to manufacture Russian military material under license from Russian companies. The Indian companies have been asked to assist Russian industries in honouring contract terms with their clientele as well as supplying the Russian military equipment in the ongoing military confrontation.
In addition, because of the sanctions levied by the United States and the European Union, South Asian and African clients appear reluctant to sign contracts with Russian industries. Regulations have discouraged these clients from entering into contracts, particularly those involving the maintenance of components that have already been supplied. As a result, these countries are turning towards India for spare parts and servicing of Russian military equipment.
India has already expressed interest in assisting Russian customers in South East Asia and Africa. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has expressed interest in maintaining and servicing the Malaysian Su-30 MKM fighter jets. HAL signed a contract on August 18 to establish a facility in Kuala Lumpur.
Uganda in Africa has also signed a contract for the servicing and technical assistance of its Sukhoi Su-30MK2 fighter jets with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in India. Six Su-30s were initially owned by the Ugandan Air Force, however one crashed in 2020, killing both pilots.
Girish Linganna, an Indian Defence Analyst, said, "India is one of the largest users of former Soviet and Russian equipment outside Russia and has immense expertise in maintaining Russian equipment." India can offer its services for the maintenance of Russian Su-30 and Mig-29 aircraft to operators in Asia and elsewhere. The Indian Air Force is also retiring its MiG-21s by 2025. India can offer spare parts and repair services to interested users around the globe.
In the midst of the continuing geopolitical unrest, India is treading a fine line in its relations with the Kremlin, as well as with the latter's military and energy industries, while retaining its status as America's key ally in Southeast Asia.
