India-Russia RELOS Agreement Comes Into Effect: Troops, Warships & Airbase Access Allowed; Know What It Means

India and Russia have operationalised a key defence logistics pact that significantly expands military cooperation between the two nations. The agreement, known as the Reciprocal Exchange of Logistics Agreement (RELOS), was originally signed in February 2025 in Moscow and is now in effect, enabling deeper coordination across land, air and sea operations.

India-Russia RELOS Agreement Now Operational: What It Means

With the agreement now active, both countries can use each other's military infrastructure, including army bases, naval ports, and air bases. The pact allows deployment of up to 3,000 military personnel in each other's territory, along with access for warships and aircraft. This marks a major step in strengthening operational readiness and logistical support between the two long-standing strategic partners.

The agreement is designed to improve coordination during both peacetime and conflict scenarios. By enabling access to facilities for refuelling, repairs, and supplies, it reduces the need for long and costly supply chains during overseas missions.

Key Features of India-Russia RELOS Pact

Under the terms of RELOS, India and Russia can station a limited number of military assets on each other's soil, including up to five naval ships and ten fighter aircraft. The agreement will remain valid for five years and can be extended further based on mutual consent.

Another important feature is the flexibility in payments. Instead of traditional financial transactions, the pact allows cost adjustments through mutual exchange or barter systems, making logistics cooperation more efficient and less dependent on currency settlements.

Strategic Importance: India Gains Access to Arctic Region

One of the most significant advantages for India is expanded access to Russia's northern maritime infrastructure. This includes key ports such as Murmansk and Severomorsk, located in the Arctic region.

The Arctic is emerging as a critical global trade and energy corridor, with increasing activity from major powers. Access to this region enhances India's strategic reach and positions it more strongly in evolving global maritime dynamics.

Russia Looks to Strengthen Presence in Indian Ocean

For Russia, the agreement opens up opportunities to enhance its logistical footprint in the Indian Ocean region. Access to Indian naval facilities will help Moscow support its fleet with refuelling, maintenance, and supplies during extended deployments.

This mutual arrangement reflects a broader effort by both nations to strengthen defence ties and maintain a stable presence across key global maritime routes.

How RELOS Differs from India-US LEMOA Agreement

India has previously signed a similar logistics pact with the United States, known as the Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA). While both agreements allow reciprocal access to military facilities, RELOS goes a step further by permitting the stationing of troops and military assets.

Additionally, RELOS includes provisions for exchange of goods and services, making it more flexible in terms of operational logistics compared to LEMOA.

The operationalisation of RELOS signals a new phase in India-Russia defence relations, focusing on practical cooperation and global strategic reach. By simplifying logistics and enabling mutual access to critical infrastructure, the pact is expected to improve efficiency in joint operations and long-distance deployments.

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