India and Russia are exploring a new collaboration to co-develop Arctic-class vessels, a proposal likely to take shape during Russian President Vladimir Putin’s two-day state visit to New Delhi starting Thursday. Russia’s First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov told Sputnik India that both nations are examining opportunities in the Arctic shipbuilding domain. He noted that joint production of Arctic-class ships could become a significant new area of cooperation.

The potential partnership aligns with India’s ongoing efforts to expand its maritime capabilities. In September, the Union Cabinet approved a ₹69,725-crore package aimed at boosting shipbuilding and maritime infrastructure. The plan includes a redesigned ₹24,736-crore Shipbuilding Finance Assistance Scheme (SBFAP), a ₹25,000-crore Maritime Development Fund (MDF), and nearly ₹20,000 crore earmarked for creating shipbuilding clusters.

Ahead of Putin’s arrival, Russia also cleared the Reciprocal Exchange of Logistics (Relos) agreement. This pact will allow both countries to use each other’s military bases for refuelling, repairs, maintenance, and berthing of naval ships and aircraft. It will also facilitate joint drills, disaster relief missions, and the movement of military units.

The agreement—approved by the Russian State Duma—will deepen defence ties by enabling Indian naval and air assets to operate from Russian bases across the Arctic, Pacific, and potentially parts of the Mediterranean. This expanded access will enhance India’s operational capabilities and support its strategic interests in developing Arctic maritime routes, which are gaining global importance.

Putin is scheduled to arrive in New Delhi at around 6:35 pm on Thursday for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit, marking his first visit to India since the Ukraine conflict began in February 2022. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will host a private dinner for him, mirroring the hospitality Putin showed during Modi’s 2024 trip to Moscow. On Friday, December 5, the Russian President will receive a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan at 11 am, followed by a wreath-laying at Rajghat at 11:30 am. He will then meet PM Modi at Hyderabad House at 11:50 am, with press remarks expected around 1:50 pm.

Later, Putin is likely to attend a business event, though the venue is yet to be finalised. Multiple agreements are expected to be signed during the 23rd India-Russia Summit, with trade emerging as a key area of focus. In the evening, Putin will meet President Droupadi Murmu at 7 pm at Rashtrapati Bhavan before departing New Delhi around 9 pm.