Published: 2 September 2025PIBInternational
Indian Armed Forces Contingent Departs for Exercise ZAPAD 2025 in Russia
A 65-member Indian Armed Forces contingent departed for the multilateral Exercise ZAPAD 2025, conducted from September 10-16 at Mulino Training Ground, Nizhniy, Russia. The contingent comprised 57 Army personnel (led by KUMAON Regiment), 7 Air Force, and 1 Navy personnel.
The exercise focused on high-intensity conventional warfare and counter-terrorism operations in multinational settings. Contingents from Iran, Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, DRC, and Mali also participated. India previously took part in the 2021 edition.
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Linked questionMedium
In FY 2024-25, the private sector's share in India's total defence production was approximately:
Explanation · Correct answer CPIB reported that India's defence production reached ₹1.51 lakh crore in FY 2024-25. Defence PSUs and other PSUs contributed about 77%, while the private sector contributed 23%, which is closest to the 25% option.
Frequently asked questions
What is Exercise ZAPAD 2025 and where was it held?
**Exercise ZAPAD 2025** is a large-scale military exercise conducted by **Russia** involving multiple nations. India participated by sending an **Indian Armed Forces contingent** to Russia for this exercise, which focuses on combined arms warfare and counter-terrorism operations.
What does 'ZAPAD' mean and what type of military exercise is it?
**ZAPAD** means **'West'** in Russian. It is a major **Russian-led strategic military exercise** conducted every few years, involving ground forces, air forces, and naval components. ZAPAD 2025 tested joint operations, command-and-control, and rapid deployment capabilities.
What is the significance of India's participation in Russian military exercises like ZAPAD?
India's participation in **ZAPAD 2025** reflects India's **strategic autonomy** policy — maintaining defence cooperation with Russia (India's largest arms supplier) while simultaneously engaging with Western partners. It helps Indian forces learn from Russian military tactics and maintain interoperability.
What is India's defence partnership with Russia and key defence imports?
**India-Russia defence partnership** is one of India's strongest, with Russia supplying ~50-60% of India's defence equipment historically. Key Russian systems: **S-400 Triumf missile defence**, **BrahMos cruise missile** (joint venture), **Su-30 MKI fighters**, **Kilo-class submarines**, and **T-90 tanks**.
How does India balance its defence relationships with Russia and Western countries?
India practices **'strategic autonomy'** through multi-alignment — maintaining robust defence ties with **Russia** (S-400, BrahMos), **USA** (COMCASA, LEMOA agreements, C-17, P-8I aircraft), **France** (Rafale jets), **Israel** (drones, missiles), and **UK/Australia** — diversifying sources to reduce dependency.
