New Delhi [India], March 29 (HBTV): A six-member delegation from the Russian Army, led by Major General Marchenko Andei, visited the College of Military Engineering in Pune, Maharashtra, from 26 to 28 March 2025 as part of the Subject Matter Experts Exchange Programme.

During the visit, the delegation interacted with Lieutenant General AK Ramesh, Commandant of CME, visited the faculty, exchanged best training practices, and shared their combat experiences. The visit aimed to further strengthen defence cooperation between the two nations.

In a post on X, the ADGPI Indian Army stated: ‘A six-member delegation from the Russian Army led by Major General Marchenko Andei visited the College of Military Engineering, Pune, from 26 to 28 March 2025, as part of the Subject Matter Experts Exchange Programme. During the visit, the delegation interacted with Lieutenant General AK Ramesh, Commandant, visited the faculty, exchanged best training practices, and shared their combat experiences. The visit is another step towards further strengthening defence cooperation between the two nations.’

Earlier, the 14th edition of the Indian and Russian bilateral naval exercise Indra, a cornerstone of the maritime partnership between India and Russia, was set to take place off Chennai from 28 March to 2 April 2025.

Since its inception in 2003, Indra has symbolised the long-term strategic relationship between the two navies. The exercise has evolved into a key platform for maritime cooperation, showcasing both nations' commitment to enhancing naval interoperability and operational synergy.

According to a statement, the exercise is being conducted in two phases: the Harbour Phase in Chennai from 28 to 30 March and the Sea Phase in the Bay of Bengal from 31 March to 2 April.

The exercise will involve Russian Federation Naval Ships Pechanga, Rezkiy, and Aldar Tsydenzhapov, along with Indian Naval Ships Rana and Kuthar, and maritime patrol aircraft P8I.

These exercises and interactions aim to enhance maritime cooperation, strengthen diplomatic ties, and facilitate the exchange of best operational practices between the two nations.

(ANI)