S-400 Missile Systems, Su-57 Fighters On Agenda To Five-Layer Security Ring: All About Putin’s India Visit

While the year seems to have started on a rather shaky note for India and Russia due to US President Donald Trump’s tariff tantrums, the end of 2025 could bring some cheer for both the countries. Trump has often asked India to cut down its oil purchase from Russia, however, New Delhi has always maintained that the decision to buy from Moscow has been taken in larger interests.

Now, in a move that could give a further boost to their ties, Russian Presidnet Vladimir Putin is set to visit India for the first time since the start of its conflict with Ukraine in February 2022. As Putin arrives in New Delhi for his December 4–5 state visit, India and Russia are set to hold one of their most crucial strategic dialogues in recent years.

With major defence discussions expected, from S-400 missiles to Su-57 fighters, nuclear energy cooperation and new logistics agreements, Putin’s visit signals a renewed push to strengthen a decades-old partnership amid shifting global power equations. This visit also comes with unprecedented security arrangements, including a five-layer protection grid.

Why is Vladimir Putin’s India visit so significant right now?

Putin will attend the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a format that has historically produced high-impact defence and geopolitical outcomes. Russian President Putin’s India visit comes at a time when Moscow is deepening ties with Asian partners amid tensions with the West.

It also coincides with India’s diversifying plans and global security concerns like terrorism, energy security, and technology transfer. Both sides view this summit as an opportunity to review progress, expand technology cooperation, and reinforce long-term strategic trust.

Putin India visit: What defence deals are expected to dominate the talks?

Ahead of the high-level state visit, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed that India’s possible purchase of more S-400 long-range air defence systems will be “high on the agenda”. India already operates the S-400, considered one of the world’s most advanced integrated air defence platforms.

The S-400 has shown its value on the ground with the most recent example being Operation Sindoor in May 2025. During these retaliatory strikes, the system enabled a 300+ km strike on Pakistani assets, demonstrating deterrence.

Will India also discuss the Su-57 fifth-generation stealth fighter?

This may be the most consequential item. Peskov openly stated that “Su-57 is the best plane in the world… it will be on the agenda.”

Peskov stated that he has no doubt that Su-57s will be discussed during the visit. The issue of Su-57s certainly will be on the agenda during the coming Putin visit to India. He also stressed that Moscow wants a relationship free from external pressure.

What about BrahMos, air weapons, and other manufacturing tie-ups?

The Kremlin emphasised the success of the BrahMos missile joint venture, calling it a model for future high-tech co-production. “As far as our cooperation in the defence industry goes, let’s remember famous Brahmos missiles. It’s not only just production or it’s not only acts of buying or selling, it’s exchange of high technologies, and it really paves the way for a bright future in this field of cooperation.”

At the Dubai Air Show 2025, Russian officials also offered licensed production of next-gen air-launched weapons, integration of Indian weapons on future aircraft. This aligns with India’s push for strategic autonomy, domestic capability, and co-creation rather than just procurement.

India-Russia nuclear energy cooperation: Also on the agenda?

A major announcement may be possible. Peskov, in a video message, confirmed discussions on small modular reactors (SMRs), expanded cooperation beyond the Kudankulam nuclear plant, Russia’s flagship project in India. Russia has “real experience” in SMRs and sees India as a long-term partner in peaceful nuclear energy.

Meanwhile, Days before the visit, Russia’s State Duma ratified the Reciprocal Exchange of Logistic Support (RELOS) agreement. This pact will enable military ships, aircraft, and personnel of both nations to access each other’s bases; simplify refuelling, maintenance, berthing, and supplies; significantly upgrade India–Russia military interoperability.

RELOS is considered a crucial enabler for future joint operations and long-distance naval deployments.

Vladimir Putin in India: What do security arrangements look like?

Putin’s India visit has triggered one of the most elaborate security plans ever implemented for a foreign dignitary in New Delhi. A five-layer security ring has been prepped ahead of Russian President Putin’s visit to India, according to a report in NDTV. The security grid comprises:

Russia’s elite Presidential Security Service

India’s Special Protection Group (SPG) when with PM Modi

National Security Guard (NSG) Black Cat commandos

Delhi Police SWAT and Quick Reaction Teams

Outer perimeter with snipers, surveillance teams, and anti-drone units

As part of high-tech monitoring, the security deployment would comprise of AI-powered surveillance systems, facial recognition cameras, drone monitoring, jammers to neutralise electronic threats, 24×7 command centre for route monitoring.

A key highlight of Putin’s security is the Aurus Senat, the Russian President’s Fortress-on-Wheels. The armoured limousine, flown in from Moscow, is also part of the security plan. The same vehicle was used when Putin rode with PM Modi during a recent SCO summit.

Russia reacts to 10/11 Delhi car blast

Russia strongly condemned the recent Delhi explosions, with Peskov emphasising joint cooperation against terrorism, a point that resonates deeply with India. “We condemn terrorism and our country had suffered a lot. We know the pain of losing people. India has faced this threat many times and we condemn terrorism. Only way to combat terrorism is to have international cooperation,” Peskov said.

Despite geopolitical shifts, sanctions pressure, and India’s rising defence ties with the U.S., the India–Russia relationship remains strategic, multidimensional, rooted in long-term defence cooperation. Russia supplies nearly 36% of India’s military inventory, and continues to offer high-end technology that few other countries are willing to share.

Putin’s India visit itinerary: How is the 2-day trip planned?

According to the Indian Express, Putin will arrive in New Delhi on the evening of December 4, where Prime Minister Modi will host a private dinner in his honour at 7 Lok Kalyan Marg. Notably, his visit coincides with 25 years of the strategic partnership between India and Russia.

Next morning on Friday (December 5, 2025), Putin will be welcomed at Rashtrapati Bhavan with a ceremonial tri-service guard of honour. He will then visit Rajghat to pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi. At around 11 am at Hyderabad House, PM Modi and Putin will hold the 23rd India–Russia Summit.

Both the leaders will address the India–Russia Business Forum at around 4 pm. Putin will be hosted to a state banquet by President Draupadi Murmu at around 7 pm.