We are not simply selling technology, we are sharing it...it speaks to the level of trust between the two countries: Putin

In the field of defence, Putin said India stands out as one of Russia’s reliable and privileged partners. “We see how India values this relationship too. Why? Allow me to emphasise again – we are not simply selling technology, we are sharing it, and it is a very rare thing to see in the sphere of military-technical cooperation. It speaks to the level of trust between the two countries.”

The two sides have a broad portfolio, including naval construction, rocket and missile engineering, and aircraft engineering. India operates several Russian-made aircraft and produces the T-90 tanks, while the BrahMos cruise missile – a joint venture between Russia and India – is “manufactured primarily at Indian facilities”. The two sides are now discussing cutting-edge technologies and the value of certain weapons has multiplied following combat experience, he said.

In the civil nuclear sector, Putin described Russia as a producer of the most advanced and reliable equipment for nuclear plants. State-run Rosatom builds and operates 22 nuclear units around the world, more than any other company, including the Kudankulam plant in India.

“These are large units, they operate efficiently and, I reiterate, have proven to be very useful. Russia is also the only country capable of building small nuclear power plants.      “Such plants are already operational in Russia, and we can make them either floating or ground-based. It’s an excellent option for specific regions where big power stations are not needed,” he said.