What Is RELOS?
The Reciprocal Exchange of Logistics Support (RELOS) agreement between India and Russia allows both nations’ armed forces to access each other’s military bases for:
- Refuelling and repairs
- Berthing and maintenance
- Supply and logistical support
Signed in February 2025 and ratified by the Russian Duma in December 2025, RELOS marks a new chapter in Indo-Russian defence cooperation.
Strategic Gains for India
- Arctic Access: Indian Navy can now operate in Arctic waters with Russian support.
- Eurasian Reach: Easier deployment of Indian assets across Russia’s vast geography.
- Joint Missions: Enhances coordination in disaster relief, training, and joint exercises.
Benefits for Russia
- Indian Ocean Presence: Russian forces gain access to Indian naval and air bases.
- Indo-Pacific Leverage: Strengthens Russia’s strategic footprint in Asia.
- Operational Flexibility: Supports Russian deployments in the southern hemisphere.
A Trusted Partnership
India already has logistics agreements with:
- United States (LEMOA)
- France, Australia, South Korea, Singapore
Adding Russia to this list reinforces India’s multi-alignment strategy, balancing global partnerships while deepening ties with traditional allies.
What’s Next?
- Joint Arctic Missions
- Indo-Pacific Patrols
- Defence Tech Collaboration
- Emergency Evacuations & Humanitarian Aid
The RELOS pact is more than logistics—it’s a signal of strategic trust and shared global ambitions.