India’s naval expansion is set to reshape global geopolitics, particularly impacting Russia’s interests as the country shifts its defense sector dynamics.
The recent multi-billion-dollar deal between Germany’s Thyssenkrupp and India’s state-owned Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders (MDS) to build six submarines for the Indian Navy has sparked interest in the country’s defense sector dynamics. While this collaboration is seen as a significant step towards reducing India’s dependence on Russian military imports, experts are cautious about reading too much into it.
India's naval expansion is a significant development in the country's military strategy.
With a growing economy and increasing global influence, India aims to establish itself as a major maritime power.
The 'We are committed to ensuring the safety of our seas and protecting our interests abroad,' said Admiral Karambir Singh, Chief of Naval Staff.
The Indian Navy has been modernizing its fleet with advanced warships, submarines, and aircraft carriers.
Key projects include the Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC) and the Scorpene-class submarine program.
These initiatives aim to enhance the navy's capabilities in areas like anti-piracy operations, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief.
The Deal: A Collaboration Between Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) and MDS
“The deal is valued at around $5.2 billion, although the final figure could be higher.” Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) has teamed up with MDS for the contract to build six advanced conventional submarines. According to experts, TKMS will provide engineering and designing support, while MDS will build the submarines in India.
India’s Dependence on Russian Military Imports
According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), Russia accounted for 36% of India’s defense imports from 2019-2023, making it the country’s largest arms supplier. Experts point out that despite this deal with Thyssenkrupp, India’s reliance on Russian military platforms continues unabated.
A Shift in Dependence?
While the collaboration between Thyssenkrupp and MDS is significant, experts are skeptical about its implications for India’s defense sector dynamics. “India’s reliance on Russian military platforms continues unabated, and it has shown little desire to substantially reduce that dependence on Moscow.” Sushant Singh, a lecturer in South Asian studies at Yale University, notes.
Germany’s Role in India’s Defense Sector
Germany has been exporting arms to India in large volumes. In the first six months of 2024, India was the third-largest recipient of German arms, valued at around €153.75 million ($160 million). This deal with Thyssenkrupp is part of an Indian Navy strategy to boost its capability in the face of the Chinese navy‘s growing presence in the Indian Ocean and across South Asia.
Located in Central Europe, Germany is a federal parliamentary republic with a population of over 83 million people.
The country has a diverse landscape, featuring the Alps in the south and the North European Plain in the north.
Berlin serves as both the capital city and the largest urban area.
Germany's economy is one of the strongest in the world, driven by industries such as automotive manufacturing and electronics.
The country has a rich cultural heritage, with renowned artists like Bach, Beethoven, and Goethe contributing to its legacy.
Russian Reliance: A Gradual Fall?
While Russia remains India’s largest arms supplier, there are signs that dependence is gradually falling. The figure for Russian arms imports from 2019-2023 was 36%, down from 46% for 2017-2021 and 69% for 2012-2016.
The Way Forward
Experts expect more collaboration between India and Europe on defense, particularly when the requirement, price expectations, and availability match. However, they also point out that these kinds of limited collaborations can happen without necessarily indicating a trend towards reduced dependence on Russian military imports.
The India-Europe defense collaboration has gained momentum in recent years, with both sides recognizing the benefits of enhanced cooperation.
In 2020, India and the European Union signed a strategic partnership agreement, which includes defense as a key area of cooperation.
The two sides have also engaged in joint military exercises, such as the 'Ajeya Warrior' exercise between India and France.
