In significant progress for Indo-Russian defense relations, Russia has approved a long-pending draft mutual logistics agreement, enabling both nations' armed forces to use each other’s military facilities. This RELOS agreement, officially named the Reciprocal Exchange of Logistics Agreement (RELOS), represents a crucial step forward in the strategic partnership between the two countries.

The draft of RELOS was recently published on Russia's official legal information website, denoting its formal approval. Once signed, the agreement will come into effect immediately and remain valid for five years, with automatic renewals unless one of the parties decides otherwise.

RELOS agreement
Image Source:
Sunya IAS

For the Indian Navy, RELOS offers significant operational benefits. Indian naval vessels, including ships, destroyers, and submarines, will now be able to access Russian military facilities globally for necessary supplies like fuel, food, and water. This access is especially important given Russia’s extensive military presence in the Arctic, a region where India is interested but has limited reach.

"Logistics support is the most crucial part of a large-scale naval operation. Fuel for ships and food and water for the crew are the necessities required for a naval crew to operate effectively in a long-term deployment," an Indian defense source said. Moreover, the agreement will facilitate improved military-to-military exchanges for joint exercises, training, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions (HADR).

Enhancing Indo-Russian Military Integration with the RELOS Agreement

The RELOS agreement not only provides logistical support but also simplifies procedures for joint exercises, ensuring smooth operations between the two military forces. It is expected to enhance a collective Eurasian security framework amid growing geopolitical tensions and expand the International North-South Transport Corridor.

Additionally, the pact will enhance visa and immigration protocols for military personnel, making them more aligned with current operational needs. India has been advocating for Russia to increase its presence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) to counterbalance China’s expanding influence. The establishment of a Russian Navy base in Port Sudan is part of this strategic effort.

Russia is also planning to broaden its military presence in Myanmar and Vietnam in the Indo-Pacific region, while India is encouraged to engage more actively in the resource-rich Arctic and use the Northern Sea Route. This reciprocal agreement highlights the mutual commitment to improving defense cooperation and operational integration.

India has already signed similar logistics agreements with several countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Japan, Australia, France, Singapore, South Korea, and Vietnam. These agreements have provided the Indian military with access to international military facilities, enhancing interoperability and operational turnaround times.

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