Armenia has emerged as a decisive partner for India in the defence sector, with recent developments denoting an important shift in military alliances. The year 2024 marks a new chapter as India has recorded unprecedented defence exports, amounting to approximately ₹21,083 crore (around $2.63 billion), a 32.5% increase from the previous year. This surge in defence exports is not merely a statistic; it reflects a broader geopolitical realignment, particularly in the South Caucasus region, where Armenia is now India’s largest arms importer.
Historical Context of Armenia’s Defence
Historically, Armenia relied heavily on Russia for its military needs, with Russian arms constituting about 94% of its imports from 2011 to 2020. This dependency included advanced systems such as the Iskander missile and Su-30SM fighter jets. However, the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh conflict exposed the limitations of this reliance, as Armenia perceived Russia’s support as inadequate. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s dissatisfaction with Moscow’s response marked a turning point, prompting Armenia to seek alternative defence partnerships.
Shifting Alliances and Defence Agreements
Recognising the need for diversification, Armenia initiated a strategic partnership with India around 2020. This partnership has been characterised by defence agreements, with a total value estimated at $2 billion. Key acquisitions include: – Pinaka Multi-Launch Rocket Systems – These systems enhance Armenia’s artillery capabilities, particularly in the challenging mountainous terrain of Nagorno-Karabakh. – Akash-1S Air Defence Systems – Armenia’s $720 million order for these systems represents a landmark deal, marking the first international sale of this advanced missile system. Scheduled for delivery in 2024, these systems are crucial for countering aerial threats. – Dornier-228 Surveillance Aircraft – This acquisition bolsters Armenia’s reconnaissance and surveillance capabilities, vital for monitoring its airspace. Armenia’s procurement also includes anti-tank guided missiles, night-vision equipment, and advanced weapon-locating radars, collectively modernising its military arsenal.
Strategic Implications for India
For India, the partnership with Armenia is strategically . It not only counters the influence of Azerbaijan, which is supported by Pakistan and Turkey, but also positions India as a key player in the South Caucasus. This alliance is part of India’s broader strategy to enhance its geopolitical footprint in Eurasia, aligning with countries like Iran and France to secure trade routes and connectivity. Moreover, India’s defence exports to Armenia align with its ambition to become a global defence manufacturing hub. The partnership facilitates access to training and operational expertise, enabling Armenia to enhance its military capabilities effectively.
Future Prospects and Regional Dynamics
The growing defence ties between India and Armenia could reshape the strategic landscape in the South Caucasus. This partnership not only allows Armenia to modernise its military and reduce reliance on Russia but also opens avenues for India to deepen its engagement in Eurasia. The potential for future collaborations, joint training, and co-development of defence technologies could set a precedent for other nations in the region to explore diversified defence relationships. As these dynamics unfold, the implications extend beyond bilateral relations to influence broader geopolitical strategies and alliances in an increasingly complex global environment.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss the implications of Armenia’s shift from Russian to Indian defence partnerships.
- Evaluate the strategic significance of India’s defence exports in the context of its foreign policy.
- Analyse the potential impact of India-Armenia relations on regional security dynamics in the South Caucasus.
- What role does the Akash missile system play in Armenia’s defence strategy?
- How does India’s engagement with Armenia align with its broader geopolitical goals in Eurasia?
