Rapid Fire
India-Russia RELOS Agreement
- 20 Dec 2025
- 3 min read
India and Russia are set to operationalise the Reciprocal Exchange of Logistics Support (RELOS) agreement, a defence logistics arrangement that strengthens military cooperation by enabling reciprocal access to bases and logistical support, including in the Arctic and Indo-Pacific.
- India–Russia RELOS: It will come into force after the formal exchange of instruments of ratification between both countries.
- The RELOS agreement governs the movement of troops, warships, and military aircraft between India and Russia, enables mutual use of airspace, and allows port calls by naval vessels of both countries.
- It covers key logistical support such as refuelling, repairs, maintenance, and supplies, and applies during joint military exercises, training, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations, with scope for extension to other scenarios by mutual consent.
- Strategic Significance for India: Provides access to Russian air and naval bases, ranging from Vladivostok (Pacific Ocean) to Murmansk (Arctic region).
- Strengthens India’s Indo-Pacific strategy by enabling long-range deployments using Russia’s network of over 40 military bases.
- Enhances operational reach and endurance of Indian Navy and Air Force, especially for Russian-origin platforms and improves logistical readiness for distant operations.
- Strategic Significance for Russia: Grants Russian forces access to Indian ports and airfields, strengthening presence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Reinforces Russia’s role in a multipolar global order.
- RELOS Like Pacts with US: RELOS is similar to existing agreements, LEMOA (Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement), COMCASA (Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement), and BECA (Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement) with the US. However, it has been tailored to the India-Russia dynamic.
| Read more: 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit |
