Russia is asking India to consider its S-500 air-defence system. It is capable of targeting missiles at a range of up to 600 km, compared with the 400-km...
With Russian President Vladimir Putin arriving in New Delhi on Friday, Moscow has put forward several defence proposals for India. These include the joint production of Su-57 fighter jets in India and upgrading India’s Su-30MKI fleet into Super Sukhoi at a cost of more than $11 billion.
During his talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, defence was discussed along with issues related to trade, infrastructure and technology.
Proposals for S-400, Pantsir-S1M and Other Systems
According to officials, apart from the Su-30MKI upgrade, Russia is also expected to push proposals involving the S-400 air-defence system, Pantsir-S1M point-defence system, radars and strategic submarines.
What Is Russia Offering for the S-400?
Russia is asking India to consider its S-500 air-defence system. It is capable of targeting missiles at a range of up to 600 km, compared with the 400-km range of the S-400.
Russia is also offering to establish an S-400 maintenance, repair and overhaul facility in India, possibly in partnership with an Indian company.
Fifth-Generation Fighter Jet Seen as an Indian Requirement
According to Russian news agency Sputnik, the US, Russia and China are the three countries with fifth-generation stealth fighter jet technology. Because of this, the Su-57 has been described as a natural choice for India.
Upgrade Plans for Around 260 Su-30MKI Fighters
India is also discussing a major upgrade for around 260 Su-30MKI fighters, beginning with an initial batch of 84 jets.
The $11-billion Super Sukhoi programme includes new AESA radars, modern avionics, improved electronic-warfare capabilities and new engines.
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