In a lighter yet symbolic moment at a press conference in New Delhi on Wednesday, Roman Babushkin, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Russian Embassy, evoked Indian tradition by referring to the S-400 Triumf air defence system as the “Sudarshan Chakra”.
The remark instantly caught attention, not just for its cultural resonance but also for the deeper reflection of the time-tested Indo–Russian strategic partnership.
When asked whether India might consider defence systems similar to Israel’s Iron Dome, Babushkin smilingly replied, “You mean Sudarshan Chakra?” He added with a quip, “Next time ask in Hindi, I can answer better!”—drawing both amusement and appreciation from the Indian press corps.
S-400 and India’s Defence Preparedness
India’s procurement of the S-400 missile defence system from Russia has been hailed as a landmark in bilateral defence cooperation. Often described as one of the most advanced long-range surface-to-air missile systems in the world, the S-400 has already proven its effectiveness in India’s strategic arsenal.
During the brief but intense four-day military conflict with Pakistan in May, the system reportedly demonstrated its capabilities by intercepting and neutralising hostile missile threats, underscoring its crucial role in safeguarding India’s skies.
Interestingly, Babushkin’s “Sudarshan Chakra” remark came only days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Independence Day address, where he announced the ambitious Mission Sudarshan Chakra—an indigenous initiative aimed at developing a robust Indian air defence shield inspired by systems like the Iron Dome.
The symbolic overlap highlights both India’s determination to advance self-reliance in defence and the continuing relevance of Russian technology in India’s security architecture.
A Relationship Rooted in History and Trust
Babushkin’s cultural references, including his warm Hindi greeting “Shuruat karengey… Shree Ganesh karengey!”, reflected the deep civilizational connect and mutual respect that have defined India–Russia ties for decades.
From the era of the Cold War to the present multipolar world, Moscow has remained one of New Delhi’s most reliable partners in areas ranging from defence and nuclear energy to space exploration.
The S-400 deal itself stands as a testament to this longstanding trust, concluded despite strong opposition and sanction threats from the United States.
Over the decades, Russia has been a key pillar of India’s defence modernisation, supplying not only weapons but also transferring technology and co-developing advanced platforms such as the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile.
Russian Response to US Tariffs on India
In his interaction, Babushkin did not shy away from criticising US tariff policies, particularly those directed at India under the administration of President Donald Trump. He noted that such protectionist measures reflected a “lack of trust and disrespect for national sovereignty.”
In contrast, he extended Russia’s support, stating that Moscow would be happy to welcome Indian goods into its markets should New Delhi face challenges in accessing the US due to trade restrictions.
This assurance not only underscores the strategic depth of Indo–Russian ties but also signals Moscow’s intent to expand bilateral trade beyond defence, energy, and hydrocarbons into wider economic cooperation.
The Larger Message
Babushkin’s remarks—whether his witty reference to the S-400 as “Sudarshan Chakra,” his invocation of Indian traditions, or his critique of US policies—collectively underscore the special and privileged strategic partnership between India and Russia.
Even as India balances relationships with multiple global powers, Russia continues to project itself as a dependable ally committed to respecting India’s sovereignty, bolstering its defence capabilities, and supporting its rise on the global stage.
The cultural symbolism of the “Sudarshan Chakra” only reinforces the idea that for Russia, India is not just a strategic partner but also a civilizational friend with whom bonds run deep, resilient, and future-oriented.
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