During Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India, the two sides are expected to discuss key projects such as the second overhauling of Su-30 fighter jets, equipping the Indian fleet with R-37 air-to-air missiles that can hit targets at ranges of more than 200 kilometres, as well as the S-400/500 long-range and Verba very short-range air defense systems.
Defense sources said that during the meeting, the two sides will also discuss the sale of about 280 missiles of the S-400 air defense system, which were successfully used against Pakistani Air Force fighter planes and spy planes in May this year. “The proposed Su-30 II overhaul project in partnership with Russia aims to upgrade the capabilities of the Su-30MKI and bring them up to the latest standards,” defense sources told ANI.
He said the project will involve about 100 of the 272 aircraft in the IAF fleet and will be apart from the indigenous upgrade of 84 Sukhoi-30s, which will be undertaken by Indian agencies such as Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. Another major project up for discussion will be the intention to acquire more than 300 R-37 air-to-air missiles, which can attack targets at ranges of more than 200 kilometres. and can further strengthen the Indian Air Force’s edge over its Chinese and American rivals operating missiles beyond visual range.
The two sides are also expected to discuss the S-400 and S-500 long-range air defense systems, which India wants to buy from Russia after its massive success in Operation Vermillion. The Indian side would also like the Russian side to supply the remaining two squadrons of Almaz Antey S-400 as early as possible and as per the deadline in the next financial year.
The Verba Very Short Range Air Defense System is also likely to be discussed during the meeting at the highest level between the two sides. The Defense Ministry under the leadership of Rajnath Singh has been actively strengthening the arsenal of the defense forces after Operation Sindoor. The two sides are also likely to discuss developing lighter versions of the missiles, such as the BrahMos NG, which can be mounted on all types of fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force and which has a range of more than 400 km. Capable of hitting targets, and long range versions of the missile, which are capable of hitting targets at a distance three times greater than the current capability.
Sources said discussions between the two sides are likely to take place during the Russian President’s visit. BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles have proven to be one of the best co-development models for military hardware between India and Russia, which are old and time-tested allies. In the meetings held ahead of President Putin’s visit, both sides are discussing cooperation in the field of hypersonic missiles as well as long-range air-to-air missiles. President Putin will be on a two-day visit to India.
India is also likely to approve the deal for 280 missiles of the S-400 Sudarshan Chakra air defense missile system, as these were successfully used at various locations in the country against Pakistani targets. India has worked extensively to equip its Navy and the other two armies with BrahMos missiles and has also been able to successfully export the missile to the Philippines, and is likely to follow through with more sales in the Asian region.
Due to its supersonic speed, BrahMos is very difficult for enemy forces to intercept and during the conflict with Pakistan in May this year it hit its targets without any problem.