Vladimir Putin India visit: Russian President Vladimir Putin has arrived in India and some defence deals are likely to happen within a day or two.
Putin remarked that the association between the two countries has been blossoming for decades. India and Russia are likely to sign deals for S-400 air defence system, the more advanced S-500, and the fifth-generation Su-57 fighter jet during Vladimir Putin India visit.
Vladimir Putin India visit is likely to result in:
- The purchase of 5 more sets of S-400 missile defence systems
- India may buy the S-500 missile defence system that is capable of intercepting long-range ballistic missiles and hypersonic targets
- The purchase of two to three squadrons of Su-57 fifth-generation fighters equipped with long-range missiles. Su-57 promises super cruise, stealth features, weapons integration, and advanced avionics.
- India may sign a deal to buy the Voronezh radar system
These deals would represent a substantial upgrade by India to layered air-defence architecture.
Why India would consider S-400, S-500, and Su-57 during Vladimir Putin India visit?
S-400, S-500, and Su-57 deals during Vladimir Putin India visit would be substantial. It would provide India stealthier strike/reconnaissance capabilities. Furthermore, the country’s air defence system would be protected by higher-altitude missile-defence layer so critical assets stay protected.
Strategically, S-400, S-500, and Su-57 deals during Vladimir Putin India visit would signal the intent of India to maintain diversified sourcing and a non-aligned procurement footprint.
How others will watch this?
S-400, S-500, and Su-57 deals during Vladimir Putin India visit will be closely tracked by Islamabad, Washington, and Beijing. The United States had earlier warned its partners about possible secondary sanctions if they engage with Russia’s sanctioned defence sectors.
On the other hand, Pakistan will view the Vladimir Putin India visit and defence deals as a direct operational concern. China will note changed capability balances.
