Defence manufacturing companies from India explored collaboration opportunities with Russian counterparts during meetings held in Moscow between October 29-30, according to industry sources familiar with the discussions.
Representatives from multiple Indian defence manufacturing entities participated in the discussions, which centered on establishing production capabilities for aircraft components, air defence systems, and related military hardware. The meetings occurred alongside a visit by an Indian industrial delegation led by Defence Production Secretary Sanjeev Kumar.
The discussions focused on manufacturing spare parts for MiG-29 aircraft and establishing production units within India for defence equipment. Sources indicated that proposals included developing facilities capable of producing components for various weapon systems currently in service with Indian armed forces.
India maintains significant defence relationships with multiple countries, with approximately 36 percent of its military equipment originating from Russian manufacturers. The nation continues efforts to expand its domestic defence manufacturing capacity as part of broader industrial development initiatives.
Multiple Indian companies participated in the delegation, representing both private sector conglomerates and government-owned manufacturing entities. The delegation included representatives from firms involved in engineering, aerospace components, and emerging technology sectors including unmanned systems and artificial intelligence applications for military use.
The Moscow meetings took place ahead of a bilateral visit scheduled for December 4-5. During subsequent discussions, both nations expressed interest in shifting their industrial cooperation toward collaborative research, development, and production of advanced defence systems to support India’s domestic manufacturing objectives.
India ranks among the largest importers of military equipment globally. The country has established manufacturing partnerships with defence firms from multiple nations as it works to expand its domestic production capabilities and reduce import dependence.
The meetings included participation from the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers, an industry advisory organization representing over 500 companies involved in arms and military equipment production. Member companies span both private sector groups and state-owned manufacturing enterprises.
Industry observers note that India’s defence manufacturing sector continues balancing relationships with suppliers from different regions while pursuing domestic production expansion. The nation’s defence industrial base includes both established manufacturers and newer entrants developing specialized technologies.
The discussions in Moscow represent part of ongoing efforts by Indian manufacturers to secure technology transfer agreements and establish joint production capabilities. Such arrangements typically involve sharing manufacturing expertise and establishing facilities capable of producing military hardware domestically.
India’s defence procurement strategy emphasizes increasing the share of domestically produced equipment across all military branches. The approach includes partnerships with foreign manufacturers to establish production facilities within India and transfer relevant manufacturing knowledge to local firms.
