India, Russia drawing up mega defence plan

From clinching deals on Kalashnikov assault rifles and very-short range air defence missile systems to a military logistics pact, upgraded combat exercises and joint projects, Russia is looking to challenge US as India’s pre-eminent strategic partner and defence supplier. Ahead of the Modi-Putin summit, coinciding with inaugural dialogue between their foreign and defence ministers, hectic negotiations are underway to put finishing touches on a wide-ranging strategic-defence agenda.