Indian Defence Executives Hold Quiet Meetings in Moscow to Explore Joint Ventures
At least half a dozen senior executives from major Indian defence companies — including Bharat Forge and firms represented through the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers — travelled to Russia this year for confidential discussions on potential joint ventures, according to three people familiar with the matter. The rare visit, held on Oct. 29–30 alongside an official Indian defence-industrial delegation led by Defence Production Secretary Sanjeev Kumar, marked the first such industry-level engagement since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The meetings focused on reorienting long-standing India–Russia defence ties towards joint development and production, in line with New Delhi’s push for greater self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
During the closed-door sessions in Moscow, executives explored opportunities related to the manufacturing of spares for Russian-origin systems such as the MiG-29 fighter jet and other air-defence platforms. Discussions also included a Russian proposal to establish production units in India that could develop equipment for both Indian use and potential export back to Russia. Representatives from major conglomerates, defence startups involved in drones and AI, and companies like Bharat Forge were present, although Adani Group denied that any of its executives attended despite sources naming its defence CEO among the participants.
However, industry officials noted that Indian firms remain cautious about deepening cooperation with Russia due to the risk of secondary Western sanctions — a concern compounded by past controversies, including the diversion of Indian-made artillery shells to Ukraine. While diplomatic engagement could offer limited protection, officials said companies must evaluate the geopolitical and commercial risks themselves. The talks come ahead of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s Dec. 4–5 visit to India, where both nations reaffirmed plans to shift their defence partnership towards joint research, co-development, and advanced military production.
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