Like we all know, be it any country, a country has to always have diplomatic relations with several other countries. India is no different. In the naval sphere, two of the most important partners of India, are the United States and Russia. India’s naval relationship with Russia is deeply rooted from the days when most of its platforms, weapons, and submarines came from there. For example, the Kilo Class Submarines and the Talwar Class Frigates have come from Russia. Even today, 70% of India’s major naval platforms are of Russian origin. This makes Russia extremely important for India’s maritime strategy. India cannot deny the significance of Russian submarines, which have greatly benefited the nation.
Why is it important for India to maintain good terms with The US?
At the same time, the U.S. is equally important. In the Indo-Pacific strategy, the U.S. sees India as a natural partner to counterbalance China’s growing naval presence, which has sometimes proved to be a major threat to some nations. For this, even the U.S. requires India’s support, while India gains advanced technology transfers and maritime systems from the U.S., which is highly technologically advanced. Similar training exercises also take place between the Indian and U.S. navies, enhancing interoperability. We can certainly state that India also has to depend on the US for its naval requirements.
India’s Multi- Alignment Strategy
India’s approach is one of “multi-alignment”. Now what does this term Multi Alignment mean? It’s basically a strategy adopted by a nation for building and maintaining strong ties with multiple powers at the same time. This means balancing both sides equally, with equal pressure and equal tactics. It allows India to take the best from both partnerships without losing trust on either side. However, this balance also comes with its own set of demands and challenges, which India has to navigate carefully, in order to survive the complexities of geopolitics. In order to understand the strategy, we can say that it’s kind of a sea saw where you’re supposed to maintain the balance on both the sides. A delicate one.
Because of this policy of multi-alignment, India is able to maintain its balance with both the United States and Russia. History also shows us that even during the time of emperors, one kingdom often depended on several others for its benefit and security, no ruler could single-handedly manage everything. Similarly, India today must engage with multiple powers to safeguard its interests. For instance, the United States currently holds a central position in global affairs, and any strain in relations can have economic consequences. Recently, when India purchased certain products, including oil, from Russia at a discounted rate, the U.S. responded by imposing an additional 25% tariff on Indian goods and simultaneously reducing tariffs on Pakistan. This meant Indian products would face higher prices in the U.S. market, affecting India’s trade prospects. Such developments underline why India must maintain careful diplomacy to keep both partners within reach.
Recently, after the U.S. imposed tariffs on Indian goods, there have been reports of India reducing its purchases of certain Russian products. However, since the details are still developing and no official confirmation is available, it’s not appropriate to draw any definitive conclusions. The diplomatic process remains ongoing, and India continues to carefully manage its relationships with both countries.
Let’s take a look at some recent highlights of the Indian Navy:
Looking at the major highlights of the Indian Navy’s recent progress, the developments of mid-2025 have been significant. The INS Udayagiri (S-35) and INS Himgiri (S-34) are set for commissioning on August 26, 2025, at Visakhapatnam. Both are versatile examples of advanced warships. INS Udayagiri built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders in Mumbai, and INS Himgiri built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata showcasing India’s growing strength in domestic warship production, which has been tremendous in the recent years.
INS Himgiri was delivered on July 31, 2025. It is the third Project 17A stealth frigate and comes equipped with BrahMos missiles. In a landmark ceremony, INS Himgiri, INS Suraj, and INS Vakshin were commissioned together marking India’s first ever triplet induction. Nearly all of the 33 ships and 7 submarines inducted over the past decade have been built domestically, a clear sign of self-reliance has been successfully portrayed to the world.
INS Arnala, is the first Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASWSWC) was commissioned in June 2025. India is also strengthening its sea-based nuclear deterrent, with the third Arihant-class SSBN, INS Arihant, expected to enter service after trials. Regional engagement remains a priority, with exercises like the Mid-Africa–India Sea Maritime Engagement (AIKEYME) further enhancing naval cooperation.
Why Naval Power Matters?
Seeing the Indian Navy progress this way is remarkable. The Navy is one of the key arms of a country’s defence. In childhood, we read stories about sea pirates and about how water routes were used for invasions whether by the British or others to conquer the new formed lands. Even today, the control and security of water bodies play the most vital role for national strength.
The Indian Navy has now reached a stage where it protects these waters at a high and professional standard. This is a huge achievement in itself for the Indian Navy, and we can be proud of how far it has come. We wish it even more success. India’s policy of keeping its naval relations balanced in a mutual, dual way is highly commendable and staying at par with global naval powers will ensure continued security and strategic advantage, thereby strengthening India’s grip at the center of global politics.
Article by Sruti Bhaumik