This sentiment has found itself reflected in the ageold phrase Hindi-Rusi Bhai-Bhai, used to describe the link between these two countries ever since an independent India exhibited a deep-seated inclination towards the USSR. During the early 90s, both the countries found themselves in the face of challenges with India in the midst of an economic crisis and the USSR faced with the trauma of disintegration. The two nations dealt with their problems with an open mind where India decided to embrace the liberalisation of its economy and the opening up of foreign investment while Russia dealt with its disintegration by restructuring its defence industries and took up the onerous task of restoring economic stability by exploring available opportunities and strategic partnerships.
The nature of defence relations between India and the USSR over the years has not followed a linear line and has been witnessing too many a turnarounds. During the early years, this relationship was characterised by the sale of military aircraft and engines like Ilyushin Il-14 transport aircraft, Mi-4 Helicopter and jet engines for India’s indigenous HF-24. Along with military equipment, the USSR also provided training in the handling of the sophisticated equipment received. This alliance, however, suffered a setback and signs of a visible straining of relations became evident due to a change in India’s “geo-political outlook” from the late 80s onwards, where it was trying to diversify its defence procurement policy, upgrading military technologies, diversification of equipment and military engagements with other countries. Some of the reasons that pushed India towards this policy were the irregular supply of spare parts and dissatisfaction over Russia’s ability to manipulate the Indian military and the Russians adopting a more pro-West approach.
This story is from the October 2019 edition of Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Diplomatist.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the October 2019 edition of Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Diplomatist.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
US Elections Biden Vs Trump?
0n November 5th Americans will elect their next president.
UNDERSTANDING UNRWA
ITS ROLE AMIDST THE LATEST STRIKE IN GAZA
Kwibuka30
REMEMBERING THE VICTIMS OF THE RWANDAN GENOCIDE
"ART DE VIVRE À LA FRANÇAISE" 2024 EXHIBITION
A SUCCESSFUL ENDEAVOUR IN BRINGING FRENCH ART OF LIVING TO INDIA
NATO AT 75
UPHOLDING PEACE, SECURITY, AND COOPERATION
HOW INDIA COULD LEAPFROG ECONOMICALLY WITH GENERATIVE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
Digital India under the tech-visionary Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi faces a new challenge as to how to create a public-private partnership to harness the immense power of Generative Artificial Intelligence to bring about transformative changes in all aspects of Indian life.
THE NEW COLD WAR
CHANGING CONTEXT AND SHIFTING CONTOURS OF INTERNATIONAL POLITICS
SRI LANKA'S INCONSISTENT FOREIGN POLICY THREATENS INDIA'S SECURITY
In March 2024, Sri Lanka's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Niluka Kadurugamuwa informed that they will permit offshore research ships for replenishment activities at its ports.
INDIA-AUSTRALIA RELATIONS
ANCHORING THE QUAD AND NAVIGATING THE MULTIPOLAR WORLD
EMERGING GEOPOLITICAL DYNAMICS: ASSESSING INDIA'S FOREIGN POLICY
India has risen as a major player in the geo-politics at an international level.