In an evolving geopolitical chessboard stretching from the Caucasus to South Asia, India is positioning itself as a decisive player. With its steadily growing defense ties with Armenia, New Delhi is not just expanding its strategic footprint — it’s sending a strong message to an increasingly assertive Turkey-Azerbaijan-Pakistan alliance. By arming Armenia, India is leveraging defense diplomacy to tilt the regional balance of power in its favor.
Azerbaijan-Turkey-Pakistan Axis
Over the past few years, a strategic alignment between Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Pakistan has raised concerns in New Delhi. This trio has frequently voiced strong anti-India positions on international platforms. During the India-Pakistan tensions, both Turkey and Azerbaijan openly supported Islamabad, condemning India’s actions. These developments have nudged India to seek new regional partners who share its concerns about rising Turkish and Pakistani influence.
Why Armenia Is Turning to India
Armenia’s outreach to India gained momentum after the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh war, in which Armenia accused Russia — its traditional security partner — of abandoning it during a crucial time. Despite both nations being members of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), Russia adopted a neutral stance in the conflict. This perceived betrayal pushed Armenia to diversify its defense partnerships, seeking support from powers like India and the United States.
India’s Military Exports to Armenia: What’s Been Supplied?
India’s defense collaboration with Armenia took concrete form in 2022 through a multi-million dollar arms agreement. As per reports:
- India has delivered the first batch of Akash-1S surface-to-air missile systems
- Armenia is expected to receive additional Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launchers
- Howitzer artillery guns are also part of the ongoing defense package
The first consignment was delivered in late 2023, and the second phase of deliveries is underway in 2025.
Strategic Implications: Not Just Arms, But Influence
Experts interpret India’s arms exports as more than just trade — they are strategic levers. According to Rajan Kochar, a senior advisor at the Indic Researchers Forum, India’s growing defense ties with Armenia serve as a proportional response to the aggressive stance taken by Turkey and Azerbaijan. With both nations openly backing Pakistan, India’s outreach to Armenia is viewed as a low-risk but high-impact counterbalance.
Will Russia Object to India-Armenia Ties?
Interestingly, despite being Armenia’s historical defense supplier, Russia is unlikely to protest India’s growing role. Political analyst Chris Blackburn believes that Moscow understands India’s motives and doesn’t view its engagement in Armenia as a threat. India and Russia continue to cooperate closely, as evidenced by India’s deployment of Russian-made S-400 air defense systems along its borders.
Public Sentiment in India: A Growing Backlash Against Turkey and Azerbaijan
The military alliances are being reflected in public behavior as well. Indian citizens and businesses have started boycotting Turkish and Azerbaijani products. Social media campaigns have discouraged tourism to both nations, which had recently become popular destinations for weddings and holidays. Furthermore, the Indian government recently revoked airport operational contracts from Turkish firm Celebi Aviation, citing security concerns.
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