India's inaugural defence consultations with Armenia in May 2024 signify a strategic shift in New Delhi's geopolitical engagement within the Caucasus region. The impetus behind this cooperation lies in a confluence of factors, both regional and international.
Armenia, having experienced a perceived lack of support from its traditional ally, Russia, during recent conflicts with Azerbaijan, sought to diversify its defence partnerships. India, recognizing the strategic implications of the situation, stepped in to fill the void.
This alignment is motivated by India's concerns over the growing influence of Turkey and Pakistan, both staunch allies of Azerbaijan. Turkey's aspirations for a pan-Turkic sphere of influence in Eurasia, coupled with Pakistan's military support for Azerbaijan, have raised alarms in New Delhi.
Furthermore, India's substantial investment in the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) necessitates secure and reliable trade routes through the Caucasus. Armenia's potential as an alternative route, bypassing Azerbaijan, adds a significant economic dimension to this strategic partnership.
The burgeoning defence cooperation is underscored by India's supply of military equipment to Armenia, including the Akash missile system, Swathi radar system, and Pinaka rocket launchers. These transactions not only bolster Armenia's defence capabilities but also symbolize the deepening strategic ties between the two nations.
India's proactive engagement with Armenia, while not without diplomatic risks, represents a calculated maneuver to secure its interests in the region. The evolving dynamics in the Caucasus, marked by this burgeoning alliance, have the potential to reshape the geopolitical landscape of the region, making it a focal point for international observers.
