India and Russia are expanding their longstanding partnership in space, with Russia emerging as a pivotal supporter of India’s ambitious Gaganyaan mission. As one of India’s key allies in space exploration, Russia has been instrumental in astronaut training, assisting in developing a manned spacecraft, and providing essential life-support and crew-escape systems. Russian expertise also extends to flight suits, couches, rate sensors, and space-capable materials, enhancing India’s capacity in human spaceflight.

Russian Ambassador Denis Alipov highlighted the extensive technical support Russia provides, from propulsion engineering to cryogenic engine development, satellite navigation, and space medicine. He stressed that their partnership is not just about technology exchange but includes laying groundwork for India’s space future. In response to Financial Express Online, Alipov noted, “We are exploring new tracks, including the prospects of wider involvement of private sector and start-ups,” hinting at joint ventures that may soon bring innovation from both countries’ space industries.

Russia’s support for India’s space milestones, such as the recent success of Chandrayaan-3, showcases a genuine camaraderie between the two nations. Alipov also commended India’s goal of establishing an Indian Space Station by 2035, calling it a “new milestone” and pledging Russia’s encouragement for the project.

Beyond bilateral achievements, India and Russia, along with Brazil and other BRICS members, are committed to fostering international cooperation to ensure peaceful use of outer space. As part of BRICS’ space agenda, they are working on a remote satellite constellation project and advancing Russia’s initiative to prevent an arms race in outer space. “We maintain in-depth dialogue to prevent an arms race in outer space and promote the Russian initiative of non-placement of weapons in outer space,” Alipov stated, emphasizing that collaboration on space security is critical for a stable global environment.

This approach aligns with BRICS’ broader strategy, wherein Russia and India actively participate in the UN’s Outer Space Committee to advocate for peaceful space exploration and non-militarization. As space cooperation evolves, the partnership between India and Russia could set an example of how strategic collaboration can enhance national goals while contributing to global peace.

Financial Express