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As Indian forces intensify counter-terror operations in response to the Pahalgam massacre, New Delhi is doubling down on the modernization and strategic deployment of ground forces—especially Russian-origin armoured platforms.
The timing coincides with anticipation surrounding Russian President Vladimir Putin’s expected visit to India later this year (September or October), with diplomatic sources confirming the visit is under discussion, though exact dates remain unannounced.
President Putin’s visit is expected to reaffirm longstanding India-Russia defence cooperation, particularly in the context of armoured warfare, where Russian equipment forms the backbone of India’s combat readiness.
Over 60% of India’s military inventory is of Russian origin, including T-72 and T-90 tanks, BMP-2 IFVs, Kilo-class submarines, and Su-30MKI fighter aircraft. The two countries also jointly produce the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, which was reportedly deployed during Operation Sindoor on May 10, 2025, targeting key terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan.
According to sources, “the ongoing Operation Sindoor has underlined India’s doctrine that ground forces remain the decisive element in holding and securing terrain—a critical factor in any conflict theatre. While advanced air and precision strike capabilities are essential, Indian commanders continue to stress that territorial control ultimately depends on armoured and mechanized ground forces.”
Adding, “India maintains a vast fleet of Russian-made tanks: 2,400 T-72M “Ajeya” and 1,300 T-90 “Bhishma” units. These have been deployed across sensitive regions including Ladakh, where tensions with China remain unresolved. Both platforms are now being upgraded to counter new-age threats such as drones, electronic warfare, and loitering munitions.”
As of June 2025, India has installed 75 electronic warfare (EW) systems on its armoured vehicles and continues to develop lightweight, modular anti-drone systems compatible with existing tank configurations. “The Indian Army’s aim is to preserve the “equilateral triangle” of mobility, survivability, and firepower while introducing new capabilities like radio signal jamming, target tracking, and automated machine gun modules,” said the source quoted above.
The unveiling of the fully upgraded T-90 Bhishma Mk III in October 2024 marked a turning point in indigenous modernization efforts. The upgraded platform includes thermal sights from Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), new targeting systems developed with DRDO, and advanced communication suites from Alpha Design Technologies, underlining the India-Russia partnership’s evolution into co-development and localization.
It has been reported earlier that almost 83% of the tank’s components are now manufactured in India, supporting the country’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
Despite growing U.S. defence engagement—totalling over $20 billion in arms deals—Indian military planners stress the strategic resilience and combat-tested performance of Russian equipment, particularly in ground warfare.
Putin’s upcoming visit for the 23rd India-Russia dialogue is expected to further discuss upgrades, technology transfer, and expanded cooperation in armoured vehicle modernization, electronic warfare, and joint production.
Sources suggest that armoured ground capability will likely be a central theme during bilateral talks, reflecting India’s operational requirements in border regions with China and Pakistan, and the sustained relevance of Russian technology in meeting those needs.
