India and Russia Strengthen Defence and Maritime Ties as Doval Meets Patrushev in Moscow
NSA Ajit Doval reviews shipbuilding, Arctic shipping routes, defence training and global security cooperation with top Russian leadership
India, May 30 : National Security Advisor Ajit Doval held extensive discussions with senior Russian leadership in Moscow on Friday, focusing on expanding strategic cooperation in defence, maritime connectivity, shipbuilding, and specialised naval training, including preparations for polar and Arctic operations.
During his meeting with Nikolai Patrushev, Aide to the Russian President and Chairman of Russia’s Maritime Board, both sides reviewed ongoing proposals linked to maritime initiatives that were earlier discussed during Patrushev’s visit to New Delhi in November 2025. The talks highlighted long-term plans to enhance naval collaboration and strengthen shipping linkages between the two nations.
The Indian Embassy in Russia stated that the discussions also included an exchange of views on major regional and global developments, reflecting shared strategic interests amid evolving geopolitical conditions.
Earlier in the day, Doval also met First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov, where the two sides assessed progress in multiple areas of bilateral cooperation, including defence production, energy partnerships, space collaboration, and industrial technology exchange. As part of the visit, the Russian side arranged a tour of the National Space Centre and the Roscosmos Joint Industry Information Centre, showcasing advancements in space infrastructure and research capabilities.
In another key engagement, Doval met Sergei Shoigu, Secretary of the Security Council of Russia, on the sidelines of the inaugural International Security Forum. The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation in defence, internal security, energy security, and broader economic ties. Both sides also discussed preparations for the upcoming BRICS National Security Advisers’ meeting scheduled to be held in New Delhi.
Addressing the forum, Doval underscored the importance of ensuring stability in West Asia, stressing the need for uninterrupted global maritime trade through critical sea routes such as the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea. He emphasized that secure international waterways are essential for global economic stability and called for collective international efforts to reduce tensions in conflict-affected regions.
He also expressed concern over disruptions in global oil and gas supply chains, noting their wider impact on energy security and economic growth worldwide.
On the sidelines of the event, Doval met Myanmar’s National Security Adviser Tin Aung San. The two officials reviewed ongoing cooperation in defence, connectivity projects, and regional security issues, while also discussing future engagements. The Myanmar NSA is expected to visit India for the 5th BIMSTEC NSA-level meeting scheduled in July.
A significant aspect of the discussions was Russia’s promotion of the Arctic shipping route as an alternative Asia–Europe trade corridor. The route is expected to significantly reduce transit time and open new opportunities for energy and resource access, aligning with India’s broader strategy to diversify maritime trade pathways beyond traditional chokepoints such as the Suez Canal and Strait of Hormuz.
The Moscow meetings collectively signal a continued push by India and Russia to deepen strategic alignment across defence, maritime infrastructure, and global security frameworks.
