Indo-Russian Strategic Cooperation: Implications for the Deterrence Stability of South Asia

Abstract

The Indo-Russian strategic collaboration is unique. Both states have had strong diplomatic, economic, and strategic ties since the 1950s. Their defence trade includes enhancing India‟s armoured, naval, nuclear and air strike capabilities as well as counterterrorism and surveillance exchange. Close collaboration in the nuclear field is also vivid. This overwhelming strategic partnership has long-term implications for South Asia. The induction of force multipliers by India would create conventional disparity vis-à-vis Pakistan, which may lead to an arms race, endanger conventional deterrence and create room for a limited war in the region. This article investigates the Indo-Russian strategic partnership from evolution to apex and how it would tilt the balance of power in favour of India, putting nuclear deterrence at risk in South Asia.