International Desk
India and Russia have taken another significant step in strengthening their long-standing cooperation in space exploration and technology. During a recent visit to Moscow, Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval toured Russia’s National Space Center, highlighting the growing strategic partnership between the two nations in the rapidly evolving space sector.
Doval’s visit took place on the sidelines of the International Security Forum, where global leaders and experts gathered to discuss emerging security challenges and technological advancements. Accompanying him during the tour was Russian First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov, who provided insights into Russia’s latest achievements in space science and infrastructure.
One of the key stops during the visit was the Roscosmos Joint Industry Information Center, a state-of-the-art facility designed to monitor, process, and analyze vast amounts of data related to Russia’s rocket and space industry. The center is expected to play a crucial role in managing and supporting the development of the future Russian Orbital Station (ROS), which is being planned as Russia’s next major space platform.
Before exploring the facility, Doval and Manturov received a detailed briefing on advanced space technologies and ongoing projects within Russia’s space program. The visit showcased cutting-edge innovations that are shaping the future of space exploration and satellite operations.
A major highlight of the tour was a live communication session with Russian crew members currently aboard the International Space Station (ISS). During the call, cosmonauts Sergey Kud-Sverchkov, Andrey Fedyaev, and Sergey Mikaev shared their experiences in orbit and discussed their recent spacewalk conducted on May 27. The interaction provided a unique glimpse into life aboard the ISS and demonstrated the importance of international cooperation in human spaceflight.
India and Russia share a rich history of collaboration in space that dates back more than six decades. Their partnership reached a historic milestone in 1984 when Indian Air Force pilot Rakesh Sharma became the first Indian citizen to travel into space aboard a Soviet Soyuz spacecraft. His mission remains a symbol of the deep scientific and technological ties between the two countries.
Today, that cooperation continues through several ambitious projects. Russia is actively supporting India’s first human spaceflight mission, Gaganyaan, which aims to send Indian astronauts into space in the near future. Both nations have also worked together to integrate their satellite navigation systems, NavIC and GLONASS, improving positioning and navigation capabilities across regions.
During the tour, the officials were introduced to several impressive exhibits, including the world’s most powerful four-chamber liquid rocket engine and the base module of the proposed Russian Orbital Station. These technologies underscore Russia’s commitment to maintaining a strong presence in space while expanding opportunities for international collaboration.
Looking ahead, Russian space agency chief Dmitry Bakanov has expressed optimism about significantly expanding India-Russia space cooperation. Plans for deeper collaboration are expected to gain momentum ahead of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s anticipated visit to India.
The visit also coincided with broader celebrations of space achievements. Russia recently marked the 65th anniversary of Yuri Gagarin’s historic first human spaceflight, while the Russian Space Forum brought together government officials, scientists, and investors from more than 40 countries, including India and China.
As both nations invest heavily in next-generation space technologies, Doval’s visit serves as a reminder that India-Russia cooperation in space remains a vital pillar of their strategic relationship, with promising opportunities on the horizon for exploration, innovation, and scientific progress.
