“Although bilateral interaction between such distant states looks unusual, both countries are benefiting from it. India, which is gradually moving towards the status of a major arms exporter, gains a regular customer and an opportunity to advertise its defense industry.
“For Armenia, India is a politically convenient alternative supplier, purchasing from which can simultaneously reduce reliance on Russia without having to turn to NATO countries for help. Under the same scheme, the Armenians have previously purchased howitzers, UAVs and EW equipment from India.
“But only time will tell how effective this cooperation will be in the long term: while Delhi is guaranteed to get its piece of the pie, Armenia’s acquisition of Indian weapons in itself is not a guarantee of anything. Especially if they are purchased in insignificant quantities, and the contracts are murky schemes to satisfy the interests of the ruling forces in Yerevan,” the publication says.
