NEW DELHI: India is highly dependent on Russian technology for its defense. Most of its Armaments in terms of tanks, armored vehicles, and electronics, as well as tighter aircraft and surveillance equipment are of Russian region. Its repair and production had been badly upset by the fall of the Soviet Union. it is therefore not surprising that Defense Minister Sharad Pawar has described as a “positive development” the conclusion of agreement on bilateral defense cooperation with Russia and said this would greatly relieve pressure on the Indian armed forces.

Pawar said that the agreement had “totally resolved” the issue of supply of spares for the Russian frontline equipment in use with the Indian armed forces as well as for servicing, overhaul and production of Russian equipment under license.

The Defense Minister said that impasse over the issue of supply of spares, overhauling and renewing joint production agreement had hit the armed forces adding, “but we are now relieved and happy.” Pawar was all praise for bold initiative and positive ness shown by the visiting Russian President Boris Yeltsin which he said comprehensive agreement.

With the frontline armament in use with the three services, the Amy, the Navy and the Air Force of erstwhile Soviet Union make, the disruption in the supplies had caused considerable anxiety in the services with war reserves becoming critical. But with the conclusion of the new agreement guaranteeing supply of spares, Overhauling and joint production, defense officials said this would give new lease of the to Russian equipment in use with Indian armed forces.

The disruption in 1991 and 1992 in the serviceability of interceptor MiG29 had almost led to 30% grounding of three squadron strong India’s frontline battle aircraft.

The slow pace of supplies had also hit the combat helicopter fleet of MI25 and the upgraded version of MI28 the transport fleet of giant IL76 as well as medium range AN32 and the transport helicopter fleet. This had led India to make oneself purchases of critical parts to stave off grounding of almost 50% of these squadrons.

Article extracted from this publication >>  February 5, 1993