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Russia presented several key defense proposals to India during Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to New Delhi
New Delhi : With Russian President Vladimir Putin’s arrival in New Delhi on Friday, Moscow has put forward several defense proposals. These include the joint production of Su-57 fighter jets in India and upgrading the Su-30MKI fleet to the ‘Super Sukhoi’ standard at a cost exceeding $11 billion.
During talks with Putin, Prime Minister Narendra Modi noted that discussions covered defense alongside topics such as trade, infrastructure, and technology. Officials indicated that, in addition to the upgrades, there is an expectation of a push for proposals regarding the S-400 air-defense system, the Pantsir-S1M point-defense system, radars, and strategic submarines.
Russia is urging India to consider its S-500 air-defense system. Unlike the S-400, which has a range of 400 km, the S-500 can target missiles at a range of up to 600 km. Russia is also offering to establish a maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility in India for the S-400, potentially in partnership with an Indian company.
The Russian news agency Sputnik stated that the US, Russia, and China are the only three nations possessing fifth-generation stealth fighter jet technology. Consequently, the Su-57 jet represents a natural choice for India.
India is also discussing a major upgrade for its fleet of approximately 260 Su-30MKI fighters, which will commence with an initial batch of 84 jets. The $11 billion Super Sukhoi program includes a new AESA radar, modern avionics, enhanced electronic warfare capabilities, and new engines.
Report – Abhijit Tushar Bhatt (Political Editor)
