Russia, India close to finalizing landmark arms joint venture deal

According to The Eurasian Times , negotiations between the Indian arms company and Almaz-Antey (Russia) are nearing completion. The joint venture will focus on maintenance and repair of S-400 air defense systems in India. The two companies aim to set up two maintenance centers and start manufacturing spare parts in India by 2028.

Russian President Vladimir Putin (right) and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Samarkand (Uzbekistan) on September 16, 2022.

The signing of this joint venture contract is considered a significant step in strengthening defense ties between India and Russia. India signed a deal with Russia in October 2018 to buy the S-400 system for $5.4 billion, despite objections from the US, according to Indian Defense News on July 1. Washington warned that such transactions could trigger sanctions under the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA).

According to recent reports, Russia has delivered three S-400 systems to the Indian Air Force (IAF). New Delhi has also sent its military experts to Moscow to be trained on the S-400 missile defense system.

The S-400 missile system will enhance India's ability to counter enemy fighter aircraft and cruise missiles at long ranges, while providing solid air defense, especially along its borders.

Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi said the country's armed forces are facing many defense challenges amid volatile geopolitics and rapidly evolving technology, according to RT.

“To remain ready for the threats and unique requirements of the times, it is important that we continuously equip our soldiers with modern weapons and technology, and continue to evolve our combat strategies,” said Dwivedi.

Mr. Dwivedi also emphasized the goal of self-reliance in defense and called for local procurement of equipment. Earlier, the Indian government had set up two defense industrial corridors in the states of Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu to promote domestic manufacturing by building a manufacturing ecosystem based on private sector resources.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/nga-an-do-sap-hoan-tat-thoa-thuan-lien-doanh-vu-khi-buoc-ngoat-185240701201848023.htm