Speculation Grows Over India–Russia Defence Deal Ahead of Putin’s Visit
Major Defence Agreements Likely as New Delhi Evaluates Su-57 Jets and S-500 Missile System Before Putin’s December Visit
As Russian President Vladimir Putin prepares for his upcoming visit to India, speculation about a major defence agreement between the two nations has intensified. Key discussions are expected to revolve around advanced fighter jets and strategic air defence systems.
India Considering Su-57 Fighter Jet Procurement
During the recently concluded Dubai Air Show, Russia’s state-owned arms exporter Rosoboronexport announced its willingness to manufacture the Su-57 fifth-generation fighter jet in India under the Make in India initiative.
Earlier this year at the Aero India exhibition in Bengaluru, Rosoboronexport had also offered to transfer Su-57 technology to India. Since then, New Delhi has been examining multiple options—whether to purchase one or two squadrons of the aircraft directly or to produce them in India on a larger scale.
Possible Announcement on S-500 Air Defence System
Another major topic expected to feature prominently during the visit is India’s potential acquisition of Russia’s most advanced and lethal air defence system—the S-500.
The S-500 is reportedly capable of destroying even low-orbit satellites, making it one of the most sophisticated defence systems in the world. India’s adversaries, particularly China and Pakistan, are already wary of the capabilities of the S-400 system, which India deployed during Operation Sindhu.
If India acquires the S-500, it could significantly enhance the country’s strategic deterrence.
Putin’s India Visit Scheduled for December 4–5
Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit New Delhi on December 4–5, 2025 to attend the annual India–Russia Summit. It is widely expected that crucial defence deals and strategic announcements will be made during this high-level meeting.
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