The Indian and Russian navies conducted the bilateral naval exercise Indra, reinforcing their commitment to collaboration and interoperability.
“The #RussianNavy and #IndianNavy ships participating in INDRA 2025 set sail, marking the commencement of the Sea Phase,” the Indian Navy Spokesperson posted on X.
The event was held in Chennai from March 28 to April 2.
Since its inception in 2003, Exercise Indra has epitomised the long-term strategic relationship between the Indian and Russian navies.
“The exercise has evolved into a symbol of maritime cooperation, showcasing the two nations’ commitment to enhancing naval interoperability and operational synergy. The exercise is being conducted in two phases – Harbour phase from 28 to 30 Mar 25 at Chennai, and Sea phase from 31 Mar to 02 Apr 25 in the Bay of Bengal,” the statement issued by the Indian Ministry of Defence said.
The exercise saw participation of Russian Federation Naval Ships Pechanga, Rezkiy and Aldar Tsydenzhapov along with Indian Naval Ships Rana, Kuthar and Maritime patrol aircraft P8l.
The Harbour Phase included an opening ceremony, Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs), reciprocal visits, sports fixtures, and pre-sail briefings between personnel from both navies.
The Sea Phase will witness advanced naval drills, including tactical manoeuvres, live weapon firings, anti-air operations, underway replenishment, helicopter cross-deck landings and exchange of sea-riders.
These exercises and interactions are intended to enhance maritime cooperation, strengthening bridges of friendship, exchanging best operational practices and bolstering diplomatic ties between the two nations.
India-Russia Defence Ties
India has longstanding and wide-ranging cooperation with Russia in the field of defence.
The cooperation is guided by the IRIGC-M&MTC mechanism, headed by the Defence Ministers of both countries.
The 20th IRIGC-M&MTC meeting was held in December 2021.
The two countries also participated in multilateral exercises such as Vostok 2022 held in September 2022 in Russia.
Bilateral projects include the supply of S-400, licensed production of T-90 tanks and Su-30 MKI, supply of MiG-29 and Kamov helicopters, INS Vikramaditya (formerly Admiral Gorshkov), production of AK-203 rifles in India and BrahMos missiles, read a statement issued by the Indian Embassy in Russia.
India-Russia military technical cooperation has evolved over time from a buyer-seller framework to one involving joint research and development, co-development and joint production of advanced defence technology and systems.
(With inputs from IBNS)
