India-Russia logistics agreement (RELOS) operationalized, clarifies scope
The India-Russia Reciprocal Exchange of Logistics Agreement (RELOS), operationalized in January, has been clarified to dispel social media claims of stationing 3,000 Russian troops on Indian soil. Like other Logistics Support Agreements (LSAs) India has with nine other countries (including the U.S. LEMOA), RELOS is a foundational military cooperation agreement for administrative purposes. It defines procedures for reciprocal use of bases and ports for supplies, repair, and fuel during joint exercises, training, port calls, and HADR missions. The agreement explicitly does not permit permanent basing of assets or long-term stationing of troops, with the stipulated maximum of 3,000 troops referring to a broad upper limit for mutually agreed engagements. A key aspect is access to Russian military facilities in the Arctic.
Key Points
- The India-Russia Reciprocal Exchange of Logistics Agreement (RELOS) has been operationalized, similar to other LSAs India has with various countries.
- RELOS facilitates reciprocal logistics support, including access to bases, ports, and airfields for supplies, repair, and fuel during joint military activities.
- The agreement explicitly does not allow for permanent basing or long-term stationing of troops on each other's territory.
- A significant benefit of RELOS is India's access to Russian military facilities in the Arctic, crucial for expanding cooperation in new navigation routes.
Exam Facts
- Agreement name: Reciprocal Exchange of Logistics Agreement (RELOS).
- Signed in Moscow on February 18, 2025.
- U.S. equivalent: Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA), signed in 2016.
- Valid for a period of five years.
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