This article analyzes the evolution of the role of Soviet arms in Indian foreign policy from 1947 to 1971. It examines the geopolitical, economic, and technological preconditions for the priority of Soviet arms over Western models. Particular attention is paid to the stages of institutionalization of military-technical cooperation between the two countries, as well as the role of Soviet arms in the Indo-Pakistani conflicts. It concludes that the "necessary alternative" was transformed into a systemically important strategic partnership that became the foundation of bilateral relations.
Keywords: war, conflict, cooperation, state, method.
Pyulzu, Evgeny Alexandrovich "Soviet Weapons as a Factor in Indian Foreign Policy: From a Forced Alternative to a Strategic Partnership in 1947-1971" Bulletin Social-Economic and Humanitarian Research, Tom 30, Issue 32 P. 64 - 74. doi: 10.52270/26585561_2026_30_32_64