India, Russia discuss measures to boost joint production in defence

India, Russia discuss measures to boost joint production in defence

News:

India and Russia agreed to extend bilateral cooperation on defence joint-venture (JV) manufacturing projects at meeting of the India-Russia Governmental Commission on Military Technical Cooperation (IRIGC-MTC).

Important Facts:

• Both the countries in IRIGC-MTC meeting discussed a wide range of issues relating to defence equipment, industry and technological engagement between India and Russia as well as after-sales support, upgradation of military equipment of Russian origin.

Major Outcomes:

• Private firm’s involvement in manufacturing process:
  • Major focus was on expanding military to military and defence industrial engagement.
  • India’s Interest – India is keen on moving forward with joint production under Make in India. This includes allowing Indian companies, both Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSU) and private sector, to manufacture spares of Russian systems in India.
  • Eventually India is keen that its companies supply components and spares to export to third world countries.
• Military to military cooperation:
  • Revised Inter-Governmental Agreement on restructuring the existing IRIGC-MTC was signed to enhance military to military engagement and rationalize the functioning of the joint commission.
  • Joint manufacturing of the AK-103 Assault Rifles has also been discussed to replace the indigenously made INSAS rifles now used by the military.
  • The two countries have already signed a bilateral road map on defence cooperation in June 2017 for enhancing joint exercises and resumption of training exchanges.
  • India also asked Russia to increase the Indian components in the Kamov-226T helicopter. India has agreed to buy 200 Kamov 226T helicopters to replace the ageing Cheetah and Chetak helicopters.
  • Recently, despite the pressure from U.S India has already signed deal for supply of S-400 Triumph anti-aircraft missile systems and construction of Project 11356 frigates.
  • An additional institutional Working Group headed by Chief of Integrated Defence Staff to the Chairman Chiefs of Staff Committee (COSC) and Deputy Chief of the Main Operational Directorate of General Staff of Armed Forces of Russian Federation would also be set up under the expanded commission

Significance:

• Logistic supply agreements will allow warships and aircraft to refuel and refurbish, improving the endurance of the Navy and Air Force.
• Since the lack of spares parts has become a major cause of concern for the Indian military, the new agreement will certainly enhance the strength of India defense sector.