India to Discuss Leasing of Russia-Made Submarines on November 2

NEW DELHI — India will discuss leasing Russia-made submarines at the meeting of the India-Russia Intergovernmental Commission for Military-Technical Cooperation (IRIGC-MTC) on November 2, serving officer in the Indian Navy Cmdr. Abhijit Singh told Sputnik on Saturday.

On Friday, India's Defense Minister Manohar Parrikar arrived in Moscow to discuss military and technical cooperation within the framework of IRIGC-MTC.

"There will be discussions for the leasing of an Akula II-class submarine. This has been under consideration for some time," Singh said.

In 2010, India began a 10-year lease of the nuclear-powered attack Akula-class submarine Nerpa. After joining India's Navy, the submarine was renamed to INS Chakra.

India and Russia have enjoyed good relations since the 1960s, underpinned by Russia's position as New Delhi’s foremost military supplier, particularly in the post-Cold War era.

IRIGC-MTC was established in 2000 to enhance bilateral cooperation in the military sphere. It is co-chaired by Parrikar and his Russian counterpart Sergei Shoigu.