In a significant diplomatic win, Russia awarded India a contract to build four non-nuclear icebreaker ships. The strategic partnership between India and Russia has advanced significantly with this decision, which also establishes India as a major actor in Arctic affairs. 

Russia's decision to partner with India for this project is mainly due to the difficulties it faces from Western sanctions. The Northern Sea Route (NSR), an important shipping path linking Europe and Asia, has grown more crucial for Russia's economy. However, Russia's access to Western technology and equipment has been restricted due to the sanctions, making it challenging to construct the icebreakers required to traverse the Arctic waters. 

India and Russia's partnership on this project enhances India's standing as a maritime power while also benefiting Russia. India's involvement in icebreaker construction reflects its dedication to Arctic exploration and development. This action also fits with India's larger plan to increase its influence in the Indo-Pacific area.

To finalize the specifics of the icebreaker construction project, the Indian government is currently in negotiations with two shipbuilders, one of which is state-owned and the other private. The contract is expected to be worth more than Rs 6,000 crores ($750 million).