Prime Minister Narendra Modi's historic visit to Ukraine underscores the importance of the bilateral relationship, particularly in the defence sector. This comes at a time when India is navigating a complex geopolitical environment, with significant military equipment sourced from both Russia and Ukraine.
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has posed challenges for India's military, disrupting the supply of spare parts and components. While the situation has improved, and both Russia and Ukraine have assured timely deliveries, India has been actively working to diversify its vendor base and boost domestic production to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers.
Ukraine, with its battle-tested technologies and cutting-edge systems, offers potential collaboration opportunities for joint ventures with Indian companies. This could be a crucial aspect of discussions during the Prime Minister's visit.
The war's impact has been felt across all three branches of the Indian military. The Army, in particular, has been forced to terminate contracts, seek alternative suppliers, and ramp up domestic production of smaller components and ammunition.
The Navy faces its own set of challenges, with over 30 frontline warships powered by Ukrainian engines. However, initiatives are underway to enhance local servicing capabilities and reduce dependence on Ukraine.
The situation also highlights past challenges, like the delays in the modernization of the IAF's AN-32 transport fleet due to earlier tensions between Russia and Ukraine.
Despite the complex backdrop, defence trade between India and Ukraine has continued. Even after the Balakot airstrike in 2019, India procured R-27 missiles from Ukraine. More recently, at Aero India 2021, Ukraine signed agreements worth $70 million for the sale and maintenance of military equipment.
Prime Minister Modi's visit provides an opportunity to further explore defence cooperation possibilities and solidify ties between the two countries, even as India maintains its balancing act amidst the ongoing geopolitical tensions.
