Algeria strengthens defence ties with India, reducing dependence on Russia

Algeria is expanding its military partnerships beyond Russia, deepening defence ties with India in the wake of a military cooperation agreement signed last November. The Arab Weekly reports that Algerian Army Chief Said Chengriha is in India to discuss joint projects and visit key defence manufacturers, including Bharat Forge and Larsen & Toubro.

This shift reportedly aligns with Algeria’s broader strategy of diversifying military alliances, having recently signed a similar deal with the United States. Russia’s war in Ukraine has weakened its arms supply capabilities, prompting Algeria to seek alternative sources for modern defence technologies, including drones and artillery systems.

Algeria’s pivot towards India also strengthens economic ties, with bilateral trade reaching $2 billion in sectors like heavy industry, energy, and infrastructure. As geopolitical tensions rise in the Sahel, Algeria’s move towards diversified defence partnerships signals a strategic realignment, reducing reliance on Moscow while fostering new security and economic collaborations.