Kathrine Frich
After years of heavy military dependence on Russia, Armenia is decisively turning away from its old ally.
After years of heavy military dependence on Russia, Armenia is decisively turning away from its old ally.
Used to be Closer
Once nearly fully armed by Moscow, Yerevan has now opted for new partners, a move that has reportedly unsettled Russian officials.
The war in Ukraine is cited as a key reason behind Russia’s dwindling influence in the region.
No New Arms Deals Since 2021
According to Russia’s own foreign policy think tank, the RIAC, Armenia last signed a major defense deal with Russia in 2021, worth $400 million, but it was never fully fulfilled.
Since then, Yerevan has redirected its defense spending, increasingly ignoring Moscow in favour of more reliable suppliers.
India Emerges as Armenia’s Top Arms Supplier
Between 2022 and 2023, Armenia signed defense contracts with India totaling over $1.5 billion.
These deals included advanced military hardware such as Pinaka rocket systems, ATAGS howitzers, anti-drone systems, Akash air defense systems, and a wide array of munitions.
The shift shows a major realignment in Armenia’s defense strategy.
France Becomes a Key NATO Partner for Yerevan
Armenia also inked contracts worth around $250 million with France between 2023 and 2024.
These included Ground Master 200 radars, Mistral short-range anti-air systems, and Caesar 155 mm self-propelled artillery, highly rated by Ukrainian troops.
The deals mark Armenia’s pivot toward NATO-aligned suppliers.
Russia’s Arms Market Collapse in Armenia
Just a few years ago, Russia accounted for a staggering 94% of Armenia’s arms imports (2011–2020), according to SIPRI.
That number dropped to just 10% by 2024. Armenia’s National Security Council confirmed the decline, noting that Russia’s logistical challenges and wartime focus have left it unable to deliver on past promises.
The Ukraine War’s Ripple Effect on Russian Exports
RIAC analysts openly blamed Russia’s war in Ukraine for the breakdown in its defense supply chains.
With Moscow’s industry stretched thin and international logistics disrupted, even close allies like Armenia are seeking out more dependable sources of military support.
U.S.–Armenia Strategic Pact Seals Russia’s Exit
In January 2025, the U.S. and Armenia signed a strategic partnership agreement, dealing what many view as the final blow to Moscow’s role as Armenia’s primary military backer.
This pact further cements Yerevan’s westward pivot, and makes a Russian comeback in Armenia’s defense market highly unlikely.
