Moscow: India-Russia defence cooperation received a fresh boost as Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth visited Russia to strengthen military-to-military ties, expand training cooperation, and explore new avenues for capability development between the two countries.
The visit reflects the long-standing strategic partnership between New Delhi and Moscow and highlights the importance both nations place on defence collaboration.
According to India’s Ministry of Defence, the visit is aimed at further deepening defence cooperation and reinforcing the enduring military relationship between the two countries.
Why Is General Dhiraj Seth Visiting Russia
General Dhiraj Seth is on an official visit to Russia from September 16 to September 18, 2026.
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The visit is focused on strengthening military diplomacy, enhancing professional military cooperation, and expanding training engagements between the Indian Army and the Russian Armed Forces.
According to the Ministry of Defence, the visit demonstrates the commitment of both nations to maintaining strong Army-to-Army relations and advancing defence cooperation.
Key Highlights Of The Visit
Upon arrival in Moscow, General Seth received a ceremonial Guard of Honour. He also paid tribute at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a symbolic gesture reflecting respect for military sacrifices and strengthening military traditions between the two nations.
India-Russia Defence Cooperation: Discussions With Russian Land Forces Leadership
General Seth held discussions with Colonel General Andrei Nikolayevich Mordvichev, Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Land Forces.
The talks focused on issues of mutual interest, including professional military cooperation, training programs, capability enhancement, and future defence engagements.
Expanding Training Engagements
One of the major themes of the visit is expanding military training cooperation. Both sides discussed increasing training exchanges and strengthening capability development between the Indian and Russian armies. Such engagements help armed forces learn from each other’s operational experiences and military practices.
Visit To Russia’s National Defence Control Centre
General Seth is also scheduled to visit Russia’s National Defence Control Centre in Moscow. He will interact with senior Russian defence officials, including Deputy Defence Minister Vasily Sergeyevich Osmakov, who oversees defence industry and procurement matters.
Focus On Future India-Russia Defence Cooperation
The meetings provide an opportunity for both countries to exchange views on modern military developments and explore new areas of defence cooperation. These discussions are expected to support future collaboration in defence technology, procurement, and military modernization.
Saint Petersburg Visit To Strengthen Military Education Links
As part of the visit, General Seth will travel to Saint Petersburg. He is scheduled to visit the Mikhailovskaya Military Artillery Academy, where he will interact with military leaders and faculty members to promote professional and academic exchanges between the armed forces of both countries.
Importance Of Military Education Cooperation
Military education exchanges help improve professional knowledge, leadership skills, and strategic understanding. Such cooperation also strengthens long-term defence relationships beyond equipment purchases and military exercises.
How India-Russia Defence Cooperation Have Evolved
India and Russia have shared defence ties for decades. Over the years, the relationship has evolved from a traditional buyer-seller model to a broader partnership involving joint research, development, production, and technology cooperation.
Russia Remains A Key Defence Partner
Russia continues to be an important supplier of defence equipment, engines, spare parts, and military components for India’s armed forces. Many major Indian military platforms still rely on Russian-origin systems and support infrastructure.
Why This Visit Matters
Regular military engagements help improve interoperability, training standards, and operational readiness. The latest discussions could contribute to better capability development and stronger defence preparedness for both armies.
Reinforcing Strategic Relations
The visit comes at a time when India and Russia continue to maintain close cooperation across defence, energy, trade, and strategic affairs. Both countries have repeatedly emphasized the importance of their long-standing strategic partnership.
Read also: India-Russia Defence Ties in Focus as Army Chief Dhiraj Seth Visits Moscow
FAQs
General Seth is meeting Colonel General Andrei Nikolayevich Mordvichev, Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Land Forces, along with senior Russian defence officials.
The visit aims to strengthen India-Russia defence cooperation, expand military training engagements, and deepen Army-to-Army relations between the two countries.
Russia remains a major supplier of defence equipment, spare parts, engines, and military technologies used by the Indian Armed Forces.
