Russia and India have signed an agreement to locally produce the Igla-S man-portable air defense system (MANPADS) in India. The deal will see a collaboration between Rosoboronexport, Russia’s state arms exporter, and an unspecified Indian private company. This marks a continuation of Russia’s position as India’s primary arms supplier, accounting for 45% of India’s arms imports between 2018 and 2022.
While Russia has faced criticism for its military performance in the ongoing war in Ukraine, its arms exports to India remain strong. Rosoboronexport is also exploring partnerships with Indian firms to jointly produce aviation weapons and integrate them into India’s existing air fleet. The company has previously supplied India with Su-30MKI fighter jets, tanks, armored vehicles, and shells.
Additionally, India and Russia commenced joint production of AK-203 Kalashnikov assault rifles earlier this year. These developments solidify the longstanding defense cooperation between the two nations.