India–Russia RELOS Military Pact Expected Ahead of Putin’s India Visit

Russian President Vladimir Putin is scheduled to visit India on December 4–5, 2025, for talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. One of the biggest outcomes of the visit is expected to be the final approval of a major military agreement — the Reciprocal Exchange of Logistics Agreement (RELOS).

Once signed, RELOS will allow Indian naval ships and military aircraft to refuel, restock supplies, and conduct minor repairs at Russian ports and air bases. In exchange, Russian defence vessels and aircraft will receive similar access at designated Indian facilities. The deal will enable the Indian Navy to operate deeper into the Arctic using Russia’s northern ports, while giving the Russian Navy smoother entry into the Indian Ocean via Indian bases.

The agreement holds strategic significance as it strengthens mutual trust and streamlines joint operations without requiring permanent foreign bases in either nation. After years of discussion, the pact is now expected to receive final clearance just before or during Putin’s visit.