India shifts defence strategy towards Western and domestic arms

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

According to the Defenseromania portal, citing reports from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, India has spent $60 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 percent. However, this has dropped to 36 percent 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 350 kilometres (220 miles) 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-millimetre (4.9-inch) calibre guns, the Indian authorities have decided to focus on a domestic project called Zorawar. It is likely to feature a 105-millimetre (4.1-inch) calibre gun and a 1,800-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.