Exercise INDRA 2025: India-Russia’s 15-Day Effort To Bolster Ties; Joint Military Drills Start In Rajasthan
Over the years, both militaries have also conducted dedicated formats such as Avia Indra (air) and Indra Navy (maritime). Image courtesy: AI-generated picture via Sora
Not only are they big oil trading partners, India and Russia are collaborating on the field too. Both the armies have kicked off the 15-day joint military exercise ‘Indra 2025’ in Rajasthan’s desert terrain. The joint military drill comes around six months after Indian and Russian Navy engaged in joint drills.
Around 250 Russian troops have arrived to train alongside Indian Army units near the city of Bikaner, simulating combat scenarios in arid battlefield conditions.
Indra 2025: What does the exercise signify for bilateral defence ties?
In a statement, the Russian Embassy in New Delhi described the drills as a reaffirmation of the “special, privileged strategic partnership” between the two nations. The Indra series has been a cornerstone of India-Russia military cooperation for years, held roughly every two years with hosting duties alternating. The last edition took place in 2021–22.
Indra includes land, air and naval components. Over the years, both militaries have also conducted dedicated formats such as Avia Indra (air) and Indra Navy (maritime). According to the Defence Ministry, the exercises serve as critical platforms for exchanging best practices, refining joint operational tactics and building interoperability.
What naval drills took place earlier this year?
In April 2025, India and Russia conducted the ‘Indra Navy 2025’ exercise in the Bay of Bengal. The drills featured communication training, tactical manoeuvring and live firing exercises against sea and aerial threats.
Officials from both sides have underlined that the engagements are not targeted at any third nation and are detached from ongoing global conflicts. The focus remains on improving coordination, readiness and professional military exchanges.
How are defence ties being managed at the strategic level?
India and Russia hold annual defence review meetings, alternating between Moscow and New Delhi, to track ongoing projects and explore new areas of collaboration. These platforms have helped sustain momentum in longstanding military-technical cooperation.
The partnership has evolved from a buyer-seller relationship to joint development and production of advanced systems. Notable programmes include the co-development of the BrahMos cruise missile, licensed production of T-90 tanks and fighter aircraft, and the indigenous manufacture of AK-203 assault rifles under the ‘Make in India’ initiative.
