Enhanced India-Russia Defense Ties: A Deep Dive into the RELOS Agreement

Russian President Vladimir Putin's arrival in India for a two-day state visit has marked a significant enhancement in the defense relations between the two countries. Prior to his arrival in New Delhi, the Russian State Duma ratified the Reciprocal Exchange of Logistic Support (RELOS) agreement, which was initially signed in Moscow on February 18, 2025. This ratification further solidifies the longstanding strategic alliance between India and Russia, paving the way for enhanced military collaboration.

What Is the RELOS Agreement?

The RELOS agreement is a bilateral military logistics treaty that sets out procedures for various operations, including:

• Dispatching military units
• Conducting port calls by naval vessels
• Using airspace and airfield infrastructure
• Providing supplies, maintenance, and refueling
• Supporting each other’s forces during exercises, operations, and humanitarian missions

This agreement facilitates Indian and Russian military platforms—such as ships, aircraft, and personnel—in accessing each other’s bases for logistical support, thereby streamlining operations across different regions.

A Pact Based on Reciprocity and Openness

Vyacheslav Volodin, Chairman of the State Duma, highlighted the significance of this partnership by noting that the ratification represents a step forward in fostering reciprocity, openness, and enhanced relations with India.

How RELOS Facilitates Joint Military Operations

The agreement is designed to improve interoperability by eliminating logistical barriers. It allows for:

• Faster refueling and replenishment
• Simplified port access and maintenance
• Seamless coordination during joint exercises
• Smooth execution of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations

This improved logistical framework significantly enhances the operational readiness of both nations' militaries.

Strategic Benefits for Both Nations

Benefits for India

• Extended Naval Reach: The agreement grants Indian naval ships access to Russian ports, including those along the Northern Sea Route from Vladivostok to Murmansk.
• Arctic Presence: It provides India with operational exposure in regions where its military experience is currently limited, such as the Arctic and polar waters.
• Support for Arctic Strategy: The access aligns with India's scientific missions and maritime ambitions in the Arctic region.

Benefits for Russia

• Access to Indian Ocean Region (IOR): Russia gains reciprocal access to Indian naval bases, thereby extending its strategic reach in the IOR.
• Closer Operational Ties: The agreement bolsters Russia's ability to operate effectively in warm-water regions through enhanced cooperation with the Indian Navy.

Geopolitical Significance

The RELOS agreement effectively establishes a logistics network extending from the Arctic to the Indian Ocean. This strengthens military interoperability and deepens the strategic partnership at a time when the global geopolitical environment is becoming increasingly complex and competitive.

Conclusion: A Win-Win Strategic Framework

The RELOS pact not only extends India's operational capabilities but also grants Russia greater access to the Indian Ocean. By facilitating seamless logistical coordination during both routine and crisis situations, the agreement underscores the enduring value of India-Russia defense cooperation. Amid a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape, this pact stands as a significant milestone in bolstering bilateral military ties.