India-Russia defence ties are once again in sharp focus as Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth undertakes an official visit to Russia from 16 to 18 September.

The visit is aimed at further strengthening the longstanding defence partnership and enhancing military-to-military cooperation between the two nations.

General Seth will be accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour in Moscow and will pay tribute to fallen soldiers at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This solemn gesture underscores the respect India attaches to Russia’s military traditions and sacrifices.

He will hold discussions with Colonel General Andrei Nikolayevich Mordvichev, Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Land Forces. The agenda includes professional military cooperation, training, and broader issues of mutual interest. These talks are expected to reinforce operational-level understanding between the two armies.

The Chief will also visit the National Defence Control Centre in Moscow. Here, he will interact with senior officials of the Russian Ministry of Defence, including Deputy Defence Minister Vasily Sergeyevich Osmakov, who oversees defence industry and procurement. This engagement highlights India’s interest in Russia’s defence industrial base and procurement processes.

As part of the itinerary, General Seth will travel to Saint Petersburg. He will visit the Mikhailovskaya Military Artillery Academy, engaging with its leadership and faculty. This interaction is designed to foster academic and professional exchanges between Indian and Russian military institutions.

The engagements will provide both sides with an opportunity to exchange perspectives on contemporary military developments. They will also explore avenues for further enhancing defence cooperation, particularly in training, doctrine, and capability development.

The visit underscores the importance India and Russia attach to sustained military diplomacy and Army-to-Army engagement. It is expected to deepen cooperation and reinforce the longstanding defence relationship that has been a cornerstone of bilateral ties for decades.

Agencies