India has emerged as a significant defense supplier to Armenia. Armenia’s defense budget has nearly doubled from $700-800 million in 2022 to an expected $1.4-1.5 billion by 2024. This increase reflects Armenia’s efforts to strengthen its military amid ongoing conflicts with Azerbaijan.
One key aspect of this military buildup is Armenia’s acquisition of the Akash Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM) system from India. Developed by Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), the Akash SAM system can target aircraft, helicopters, and drones within a range of 4-25 km. It is known for being highly resistant to jamming, fully automatic, and portable.
In addition to the Akash system, Armenia has purchased Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launchers, anti-tank missiles, and ammunition from India. This deal, valued at around Rs 2,000 crore, was facilitated through Iran, which has helped transport the shipments. Iran’s role highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics in the region.
Azerbaijan has criticized India’s arms sales to Armenia. President Ilham Aliyev called the sales unfriendly and questioned the quality of the weapons. This criticism is tied to the long-standing conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan over the Nagorno-Karabakh region. Despite these tensions, Armenia is pleased with its new acquisitions and is looking to buy more weapons from India.
The growing defense relationship between Armenia and India is part of broader strategic ties. Armenia supports India on international issues like the Kashmir dispute and does not have diplomatic ties with Pakistan. High-level diplomatic engagements have reinforced these ties, with both countries seeking to expand their trade and cooperation.
Additionally, Armenia, India, and Iran have formed a trilateral group to discuss economic and regional security issues. This cooperation contrasts with the Azerbaijan-Pakistan-Turkey alliance, which played a significant role in the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. During that conflict, Azerbaijan benefited from Turkish military support, while Armenia struggled with older equipment.
India’s defense exports to Armenia illustrate a strategic partnership driven by shared interests and Armenia’s urgent need to enhance its military capabilities amidst regional conflicts.
