India Likely to Push for Su-57 Jets, S-500 Defence System During Putin Visit: Talks to Deepen Strategic Partnership

Delhi: India is preparing to open formal discussions with Russia for the possible purchase of Su-57 fifth-generation fighter jets and the S-500 air defence system during Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to New Delhi this week, according to a Bloomberg report. The move signals a renewed push to upgrade India’s long-term air and missile defence capabilities amid evolving regional security challenges.

Putin is scheduled to arrive in India on December 4 for a two-day state visit, during which he will hold the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This long-standing engagement—held alternately in both countries—has consistently delivered key defence, trade, and strategic outcomes. Officials familiar with the preparations say this round of talks is expected to further strengthen the decades-old partnership.

According to the report, India is expected to express interest in acquiring the Su-57, Russia’s most advanced stealth fighter, positioned by Moscow as a rival to the American F-35. New Delhi may consider procuring two to three squadrons of the aircraft, as reported by the Times of India. India is already operating a fleet of more than 200 Russian-origin fighter jets, forming a major part of its current airpower.

Also on the agenda is the S-500 ‘Prometey’ missile defence system, touted as one of the world’s most sophisticated long-range interceptors capable of engaging ballistic missiles, hypersonic weapons, and low-flying threats. India already uses the S-400 air defence system, which played a critical role during heightened tensions with Pakistan and has been showcased as part of India’s integrated defence shield.

Earlier reports suggested that India was considering issuing a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the purchase of around 300 Russian missiles to strengthen the operational readiness of its S-400 units, including those deployed during Operation Sindoor.

The Ministry of External Affairs has confirmed Putin’s visit, noting that it comes at the invitation of Prime Minister Modi. In its statement, the MEA said the summit will “review progress in bilateral relations, set the vision for strengthening the ‘Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership’, and exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interest.”