New Delhi

As Russian President Vladimir Putin continues his visit to India, the two countries are expected to engage in wide-ranging discussions on several high-value defence programmes, including upgrades for the Su-30 combat fleet and procurement of advanced missile systems.

According to defence officials, talks will likely cover the second major overhaul of the Indian Air Force’s Su-30MKI fleet. The proposed Indo-Russian project aims to bring roughly 100 of the 272 aircraft to the newest configuration. This upgrade plan will run in parallel with the indigenous modernisation of 84 Su-30s by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited.

Another significant agenda item is India’s interest in acquiring over 300 R-37 long-range air-to-air missiles, capable of engaging targets beyond 200 km. These weapons are expected to bolster the IAF’s advantage over rival air forces operating comparable long-range missile platforms from China and the US.

Officials also indicated that India will seek progress on the S-400 and S-500 long-range air defence systems. The successful performance of the S-400 during Operation Sindoor has strengthened New Delhi’s intent to procure additional units. India is also keen that Russia’s Almaz Antey deliver the remaining two S-400 squadrons within the next financial year as originally scheduled.

The Verba man-portable very short-range air defence system is another item expected to feature in high-level discussions.

Defence sources added that India may also move ahead with a plan to purchase around 280 S-400 missiles, following their effective use against Pakistani aircraft and surveillance assets earlier this year.

Beyond air defence, India and Russia are likely to advance cooperation on missile development. Talks are expected on lighter variants of the BrahMos, such as the BrahMos-NG, designed for compatibility with a wider range of IAF fighter jets and with strike ranges exceeding 400 km. Discussions may also extend to extended-range BrahMos versions with capabilities projected to be triple the current reach.

In recent preparatory meetings, both sides have exchanged views on collaboration in hypersonic technologies and long-range air-to-air missile development. President Putin is in India for a two-day visit.

BrahMos, jointly developed by India and Russia, is widely viewed as a benchmark model for defence co-production between the two nations. India has deployed the missile extensively across its armed forces and has entered the export market with a successful sale to the Philippines, with more Asian countries expressing interest.

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The supersonic BrahMos was used with precision during the May conflict with Pakistan, demonstrating high survivability and the difficulty adversaries face in intercepting it.