India shifts from Russian arms to domestic and Western alternatives

India, the world's largest arms importer, is clearly changing its purchasing policy. More and more often, instead of equipment from Russia, they are opting for Western solutions while bravely investing in their own defence industry. What weapons play the most significant role in this shift?

According to the DefenceRomania portal, citing reports from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, India has spent £50 billion on weapons from Russia in the last two decades. From 2009 to 2013, the share of Russian weapons in the total imported equipment was almost 80%. However, this has dropped to just 36% in the last five years.

The latest example of India focusing on its solutions is announcing a new air defence system tender. The specifications suggest it will be similar to the previously purchased Russian S-400. It is expected to have a range of up to 220 miles (350 kilometres) and the ability to combat stealth aircraft and ballistic missiles travelling at very high speeds.

A similar situation is occurring with tanks. Instead of another contract with Russia for light Russian Sprut SDM1 tanks with 125 mm calibre guns, the Indian authorities have focused on a domestic project called Zorawar. It will likely feature a 105 mm calibre gun and a 1,341 horsepower engine. Additional armament is to include two machine guns.

However, a complete break with Russia is not an option. India does not want to push Russia towards China and simultaneously lose opportunities for future orders, such as spare parts and components for already-used Russian weapons.

The change in India's approach to imports mainly benefits selected NATO countries. India is tightening ties, especially with the United States. Patrol aircraft P-8 Poseidon are already being delivered from there, and talks are underway, for example, about Stryker armoured personnel carriers. Part of their production might even be transferred to India.

Negotiations are underway with France to purchase Rafale fighters (which would replace Russian MiG-29s), and India plans to build submarines with several EU countries.