Armenian–Indian relations steadily developing -expert

Armenian–Indian cooperation in the military sphere has been developing most actively since September 2022. As of today, Armenia is one of India's largest arms buyers.

Military expert Leonid Nersisyan in an interview with Armenpress commented on Armenian–Indian military cooperation, the weapons procurement process, and the applicability of the acquired armaments.

“In 2022, India was perhaps the only country that immediately expressed its readiness to supply Armenia with various types of weapons and ammunition. Later, relations with other countries in this area also developed, but during a critical period, it was India that extended a helping hand,” Nersisyan said.

According to him, cooperation is also highly important for India, which is a relatively new player in the international arms market. “Orders from Armenia were a serious step forward for India's military industry and help promote Indian products in other markets,” he noted.

Citing open-source information, the expert recalled that Armenia has purchased a large number of artillery systems from India, including 155 mm ATAGS, MArG-155 and TRaJAN systems, as well as PINAKA multiple-launch rocket systems, which belong to the same class as the Soviet-era Uragan and Smerch systems.

“The purchase of artillery and missile systems was critically important for Armenia, as we suffered significant losses during the 44-day war. The new systems have a number of advantages compared to the Soviet weapons previously in use,” Nersisyan said.

He noted that active changes are currently taking place in the armaments sector, with advanced technologies being introduced and markets becoming increasingly diversified. According to him, Armenia now procures weapons and ammunition of various models from different countries, most of which are digitalized systems that operate faster and more accurately. 

“ There is no single supplier that can be optimal for Armenia. Diversification in this area is therefore justified,” the expert emphasized.

Political scientist David Stepanyan, in turn, stressed that while military cooperation with India is significant, bilateral relations are also important from a geopolitical perspective.

“The fact that Armenia is one of the main buyers of Indian weapons once again demonstrates the high level of cooperation. Armenian–Indian relations are strategic in nature,” Stepanyan said.

He noted that arms procurement is not only an element of defense cooperation but also reflects political partnership. According to him, India is a key partner for Armenia, particularly considering regional dynamics. While Armenia seeks to improve relations with Pakistan, Stepanyan recalled that Pakistan was involved in the 44-day war against Armenia, which makes Armenia and India natural partners in this context.

The political scientist added that Armenian–Indian strategic relations are expected to deepen further. He highlighted India’s rapid economic growth, young population, and technological advancement, noting that the country is increasingly viewed as a close partner of the United States.

According to Stepanyan, logistical cooperation is also of great importance. He referred to the North–South transport corridor, which could eventually connect India with European markets via Iran and Armenia.

“At present, Iran faces serious internal challenges and strained relations with the United States.In the case of Iran, this project is somewhat questionable, as, to my understanding, interest in the exploitation of Iranian ports has decreased. If the Trump Route project works and the South Caucasus is connected to Central Asia, it may also provide opportunities for India in the future. However, that is a matter for the future,” said our interlocutor.

Speaking about cooperation within the framework of BRICS, Stepanyan emphasized that bilateral relations remain more significant, noting that Armenia and India have already developed relations based on a high level of strategic and defense cooperation.