Su-30 Overhaul to S-400 Missiles: Key Defence Deals on Table as Putin Meets Modi (Image: File)
The ongoing India-Russia annual summit is poised to focus significantly on a series of high-value defence collaborations aimed at modernizing the Indian military. Discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Vladimir Putin are expected to cover major projects, including a second overhaul of Su-30MKI fighters, the acquisition of long-range R-37 and S-400 missiles, and the co-development of next-generation BrahMos variants.
According to defence sources, the agenda includes several critical initiatives to enhance India's combat capabilities across air and missile defence.
This broad upgrade agenda follows a period of major focus on boosting military strength. Rajnath Singh and the Defence Ministry have been actively improving the arsenal since recent confrontations. The discussions show a deliberate effort to maintain technological balance and meet emerging challenges using India’s long-standing defence cooperation with Russia.
The planned Su-30 upgrades and purchase of R-37 missiles are meant to greatly enhance the offensive range and strength of the IAF’s main fighter fleet. At the same time, speeding up S-400 deliveries and looking into the S-500 and Verba systems would build a strong, multi-layered air defence shield.
Defence cooperation remains the cornerstone of the India-Russia strategic relationship. The summit talks aim to transition from a buyer-seller dynamic to more joint research, development, and production, as exemplified by the BrahMos success story.
Clearing a deal for 280 S-400 missiles would signal that India still trusts Russian platforms. Additionally, collaborative efforts on next-generation BrahMos models and hypersonic technology demonstrate both countries' pursuit of long-term technical dominance.
A: It is a major upgrade program proposed in partnership with Russia to modernize the avionics, weapons, and electronic warfare systems of approximately 100 Su-30MKIs, bringing them to contemporary standards to extend their service life and combat effectiveness.
A:The R-37 is a very long-range air-to-air missile that can strike targets over 200 km away. It would let IAF jets hit enemy aircraft, including AWACS and tankers, from far-off stand-off distances, well beyond the reach of most missiles used by nearby rivals.
A: India has received some squadrons. In the upcoming fiscal year, the discussions will center on accelerating the delivery of the two remaining squadrons in accordance with the predetermined timeline.
A: The next-generation BrahMos is a planned lighter and smaller version of the current supersonic cruise missile. It is meant to fit a wider range of fighter jets, including lighter ones like the MiG-29 and Tejas, unlike the heavier model used now.
A: The agenda includes a mix: expediting existing deals (S-400), discussing new acquisitions (R-37, Verba), and launching new co-development projects (Su-30 overhaul, BrahMos NG).
