India’s long-standing defence partnership with Russia has historically been a point of discomfort for the United States, according to recent remarks by US Commerce Secretary Lutnick. However, in a significant shift, current geopolitical and economic trends indicate a growing alignment between India and the US, suggesting a recalibration of past tensions.

Historic Context: The Indo-Russian Defence Nexus

For decades, Russia (formerly the Soviet Union) has been India’s most reliable defence supplier, accounting for over 60% of India’s military inventory. From fighter jets like the Sukhoi Su-30MKI to missile systems such as the S-400, Russia has played a central role in shaping India’s defence capabilities. While this relationship was forged during the Cold War era, its continuation into the 21st century has raised eyebrows in Washington.

US officials have repeatedly expressed concern over India’s reliance on Russian arms, particularly in light of the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA), which could impose sanctions on countries engaging in significant defence transactions with Moscow. Despite these pressures, India has maintained that its strategic autonomy and national security interests require diversified defence procurement.

Lutnick’s Remarks: A Changing Narrative

Speaking at a bilateral forum, Commerce Secretary Lutnick acknowledged that India’s defence purchases from Russia had previously “rubbed the US the wrong way.” The candid admission reflects longstanding frustrations within sections of the US government. However, he quickly pointed out that "trends are changing now," signaling a notable shift in Washington’s approach to India’s strategic choices.

Lutnick emphasized the increasing defence and technological cooperation between India and the United States. From joint military exercises like Yudh Abhyas and Cope India to the recent signing of foundational defence agreements such as BECA (Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement), the Indo-US defence partnership has been steadily deepening.

Emerging Trends: Diversification & Collaboration

Over the past few years, India has gradually diversified its arms imports. While Russia remains a key player, the US, France, and Israel have become prominent defence partners. US-origin equipment like the Apache helicopters, Chinook heavy-lift choppers, P-8I surveillance aircraft, and M777 howitzers are now part of India’s growing military inventory.

In addition, initiatives like the Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET) launched between India and the US aim to foster collaboration in areas such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, cyber security, and defence innovation—further reducing the dependency on any single partner.

Geopolitical Realignment: The Quad Factor

India’s increasing role in the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad), alongside the US, Japan, and Australia, also underscores its pivot toward broader strategic cooperation with like-minded democracies. The Indo-Pacific region’s growing centrality in global security discourse has encouraged both India and the US to find common ground, despite past differences.

Washington now sees New Delhi not only as a key regional partner but as a critical player in counterbalancing China’s influence. This convergence of interests has led to a more pragmatic understanding of India’s defence posture and historical ties.

Conclusion: A Mature Partnership in the Making

Secretary Lutnick’s statement reflects a more nuanced and evolved US stance towards India’s strategic decisions. While India’s defence relationship with Russia may have caused friction in the past, the current trajectory of Indo-US ties appears to be one of cooperation, mutual respect, and shared interests.

The shifting defence dynamics highlight a broader realignment in global politics—one where sovereign choices are increasingly respected in the face of larger strategic objectives.

As the world navigates new geopolitical challenges, the India-US partnership stands poised to become one of the most significant bilateral relationships of the 21st century.