India-Russia logistics agreement, with eye on Arctic, Indo-Pacific, Pg9

Key Highlights:

• President Vladimir Putin has signed into federal law the Reciprocal Exchange of Logistics Support (RELOS) agreement with India after ratification by both houses of the Russian Parliament.
• RELOS facilitates the movement of military formations, warships, and military aircraft between Russia and India, including logistical support.
• The agreement allows mutual use of airspace and port calls, applicable during joint exercises, training, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief.
• For India, RELOS provides access to Russian air and naval bases from Vladivostok to Murmansk, enhancing operational reach, especially for Russian-origin equipment.

Detailed Insights:

• RELOS provides India with an institutional framework to access over 40 Russian bases, supporting India's Indo-Pacific strategy by enabling the Indian Navy and Air Force to operate further from home.
• The agreement allows the Russian military greater access to Indian ports and airfields for refueling, repairs, and operations, bolstering Russia's position in the Indian Ocean.
• RELOS is similar to agreements with the US like LEMOA, COMCASA, and BECA, but tailored to the India-Russia dynamic, deepening the existing defense partnership.
• These agreements with the US strengthen India as a key partner in the QUAD, balancing Chinese influence in the Indo-Pacific, while making India a more capable and interoperable partner for the US.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Reciprocal Exchange of Logistics Support (RELOS): An agreement facilitating mutual logistical support between countries' military forces.
• Indo-Pacific Strategy: A geopolitical approach focusing on the interconnectedness of the Indian and Pacific Oceans, emphasizing free and open navigation.
• QUAD: A strategic dialogue between the United States, India, Japan, and Australia to promote security and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.