As part of a longstanding defence relationship with Russia, India participated in the Zapad-2025 military exercise at Nizhny Novgorod in russia. In a press release, the Defence Ministry confirmed that contingent of 65 Indian Armed Forces personnel from the Army, Air Force, and Navy, took part in the exercise. The Indian Army group was led by a battalion of the Kumaon Regiment.
The joint drills, led by Russia and Belarus, involved around 100,000 troops and focused on improving military cooperation, interoperability, and sharing tactics for conventional warfare and counter-terrorism. The Exercise, which concluded yesterday, allowed the forces to enhance their operational abilities, integrate new technologies, and work in a multinational setting. India’s participation strengthens defence ties with Russia and promotes mutual trust and collaboration between the two countries.