Armenia, a small nation in Europe, has emerged as India’s largest arms importer, reflecting a deepening defense partnership between the two countries. In the financial year 2023-24, India’s defense exports hit a record high of approximately ₹21,083 crores (around $2.63 billion), representing a 32.5% increase compared to the previous year. This growth is largely attributed to Armenia’s increased procurement of advanced military systems from India.
A Shift in Armenia’s Defense Policy
Historically, Armenia relied heavily on Russia for its military needs. Between 2011 and 2020, Russia supplied 94% of Armenia’s weapons, including advanced systems such as Iskander ballistic missiles, Su-30SM fighter jets, air defense systems, and multiple rocket launchers. For decades, Russian arms formed the backbone of Armenia’s military power.
However, Armenia’s trust in Russia began to erode following the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh war with neighboring Azerbaijan. During the conflict, Armenia found Russia‘s support inadequate and delayed. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan later expressed frustration, saying, “Our allies have failed to deliver arms to Armenia despite contracts over the past two years,” signaling his growing dissatisfaction with Russia’s role.
As a result, Armenia started diversifying its defense partnerships, actively seeking alternatives beyond Russia. This shift in policy opened the door for India to become a key defense partner, and the two countries began fostering closer military ties starting in 2020. Armenia has since strengthened its cooperation with India, driven by its need to bolster defense capabilities amid persistent tensions with Azerbaijan.
A $2 Billion Defense Partnership with India
In a significant step toward defense collaboration, Armenia signed deals worth $2 billion with India, which has helped solidify their partnership over the past few years. Armenia has been steadily purchasing advanced weapons systems from India to modernize its military. By the start of the 2024-25 financial year, Armenia’s cumulative defense purchases from India had reached $600 million.
Key Military Systems Armenia Procures from India
1. Pinaka Multi-Launch Rocket System (MLRS)
– The Pinaka system, known for its precision and range, has been a game-changer for Armenia’s artillery. It offers strategic advantages, particularly in challenging terrains like the Nagorno-Karabakh region. The Pinaka MLRS provides Armenia with superior firepower and the capability to neutralize enemy targets efficiently, enhancing its position in the conflict-prone area.
2. Akash-1S Air Defense Missile System
– In 2022, Armenia placed a $720 million order for 15 Akash-1S systems, marking the first international sale of this indigenously developed air defense system by Bharat Dynamics Ltd. Scheduled for delivery this year, the Akash-1S will significantly enhance Armenia’s ability to counter aerial threats, such as fighter jets, guided missiles, and drones, giving it a robust air defense capability.
3. Dornier-228 Surveillance Aircraft
– The Dornier-228 aircraft strengthens Armenia’s reconnaissance and surveillance capabilities, allowing it to monitor its airspace more effectively. These aircraft enhance situational awareness, enabling Armenia to detect and respond swiftly to potential threats.
4. Other Advanced Military Equipment
– India has also supplied Armenia with a variety of crucial military hardware, including:
– Anti-tank guided rockets
– Bulletproof jackets and night-vision goggles
– Artillery and ammunition
– Small arms
– Weapon-locating radars
These systems collectively modernize Armenia’s military infrastructure, providing it with a more comprehensive and resilient defense capability.
Armenia’s Strategic Calculations and Regional Threats
Armenia’s decision to partner with India reflects not only a desire to diversify its defense sources but also a strategic move to enhance its military readiness against persistent threats from Azerbaijan. With advanced systems like the Pinaka and Akash-1S, Armenia is better equipped to manage potential flare-ups in conflict-prone regions.
The collaboration also highlights India’s growing role as a major defense exporter on the global stage. Armenia’s reliance on Indian arms marks a shift from Russia’s dominance in the region, signaling the changing geopolitical landscape. As Armenia continues to navigate regional tensions, its evolving partnership with India provides it with the military support it needs while also fostering long-term strategic ties.
In summary, Armenia’s transition from a reliance on Russian arms to Indian defense systems reflects both shifting geopolitical priorities and practical needs. With its procurement of advanced weapons, including missile defense systems, surveillance aircraft, and artillery, Armenia is not only bolstering its military capability but also reducing its dependence on traditional allies. The strengthening of India-Armenia defense ties underscores India’s rising influence in the global arms market and Armenia’s intent to secure its national interests amidst regional uncertainties.