World

Indian Army Chief Begins Three-Day Visit to Russia for Defense Cooperation Talks

By Dhruv Yadav

General Dhiraj Seth, Chief of the Indian Army, commenced a three-day official visit to Russia on Wednesday, concluding on September 18. This marks the first visit by a serving Indian Army chief to Russia since General Bipin Rawat's trip in October 2018. The visit aims to strengthen defense cooperation between the two nations.

During his engagements, General Seth will participate in discussions with Russian officials regarding military cooperation and training. Key topics will include sustainment support for Russian-origin military equipment. Russia has also presented proposals for new defense systems and joint production initiatives.

In Moscow, General Seth is scheduled to receive a ceremonial Guard of Honour and lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. He will then hold talks with Colonel General Andrei Mordvichev, Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Land Forces, focusing on professional military cooperation and training.

General Seth's itinerary also includes a visit to the National Defence Control Centre and meetings with senior Russian Ministry of Defence officials, including Deputy Minister Vasily Osmakov, who is responsible for the defense industry and procurement. These discussions are expected to cover contemporary military developments and explore avenues for deeper cooperation between the armies of India and Russia. Following his engagements in Moscow, General Seth will travel to Saint Petersburg to visit the Mikhailovskaya Military Artillery Academy.