With S-400 and Su-57 in Focus, What Makes Putin’s India Tour So Critical?

Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to India has been finalized amid the Ukraine war. He will attend the 23rd Russia-India Summit on December 4 and 5 at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During this time, there will be a separate bilateral meeting between PM Modi and Putin, while President Draupadi Murmu will host a dinner in their honor.

Which defense deal is most discussed in this tour?

The most important thing about the tour is considered to be strategic defense cooperation. Russia can offer three major defense systems to India, of which the most focus is on the S-400 and Sukhoi-57. S-400 is already an important part of India's air defense, but this time the focus is on Russia's most advanced fighter aircraft, the Su-57.

Why can the Sukhoi-57 be a game changer for India?

The Su-57 is Russia's fifth-generation stealth fighter jet. It is said to be better than the American F-35. It has Active Electronically Scanned Array radar, which can track multiple targets simultaneously. Mach-2's speed, long range, and ability to carry heavy weapons make it extremely dangerous.
Russia has already offered co-production of the Su-57 to India. If this deal happens, then co-production of these aircraft will be possible in India itself.

What are the biggest strengths of this fighter jet?

The R-37M missile has been installed in the Su-57, which can strike air-to-air at a distance of more than 300 kilometers. It is used in both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. Due to its stealth design, it remains almost invisible to enemy radar. In view of the bilateral challenges from China and Pakistan, such jets can give a big edge to the Indian Air Force.

Why is this Putin's first visit to India after the war important?

Putin is visiting India for the first time after the start of the Russia-Ukraine conflict in 2022. However, both the leaders have met on many international forums in the last two years. Both of them met in Samarkand SCO, Moscow Summit, BRICS, and the recent Tianjin SCO meeting, and war was definitely discussed every time.

Could America be worried about this visit?

Experts believe that such agreements may be reached in the Putin-Modi talks in Delhi, which will make Washington uncomfortable. America first put pressure on India to buy oil from Russia, imposed tariffs, and also gave trade warnings, but India maintained a balanced stance. Russia has also been continuously calling India a reliable partner.

Why does Putin consider India special?

Recently, Putin described European countries as giving in to the pressure of the arms lobby while calling India a friend with which there are no differences. He also said that he is looking forward to the Delhi visit and attaches importance to talks with Prime Minister Modi.