India Winds Down Major Russian Defense Deals with INS Tamal & S‑400
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On July 1, 2025, the Indian Navy commissioned INS Tamal, a stealthy Admiral Grigorovich-class guided-missile frigate built in Russia. This ship marks the final major naval acquisition from Moscow, following India’s longstanding strategy of transitioning toward domestic shipbuilding under its “Make in India” defense initiative. INS Tamal, equipped with BrahMos cruise missiles, Shtil‑1 air-defence systems, torpedoes, and a comprehensive electronic warfare suite, will bolster the nation’s Western Naval Command across the Arabian Sea.
Simultaneously, India is wrapping up its S‑400 air defence system deal with Russia. Three out of five squadrons have already been deployed in strategic locations along India’s borders, with the remaining two scheduled for delivery by 2026–27 . The S‑400 provides a critical external shield, with a reach of up to 380 km and capabilities against aircraft, drones, and cruise missiles.
Offers for advanced Russian systems—such as Su‑57 stealth fighters, the S‑500 air defence platform, Kalibr cruise missiles, and nuclear-submarine leases—have seen no traction, as New Delhi has prioritized developing its AMCA indigenous fifth-generation fighter. India’s defense imports from Russia have shrunk drastically from 76% in 2009 to 36% in 2024, reflecting its diversification toward Western suppliers like the US and France, which have collectively signed nearly $20 billion in contracts since 2018.
However, India continues to depend on Moscow for maintenance, spares, and legacy support—such as for Su‑30MKIs and tanks while simultaneously deepening energy ties; in May 2025, India became Russia’s second-largest fossil-fuel customer .
This dual trajectory underscores a strategic balance: retaining operational readiness in Russia-built platforms while accelerating self-reliance and embracing new alliances for future procurement.
