Kremlin Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov has revealed that the upcoming state visit of President Vladimir Putin to India on December 4-5, 2025, will focus heavily on military cooperation, specifically the potential acquisition of additional S-400 long-range air defense systems and the latest Su-57 fifth-generation stealth fighter. Peskov underscored the robustness of Russia’s defense manufacturing capabilities, noting that Russian-made equipment currently comprises 36% of India’s military inventory, a number poised to rise as collaboration deepens.
Peskov characterized the Su-57 as “the world’s finest aircraft” and indicated Moscow’s openness to discussions surrounding its potential induction into India’s military arsenal. This statement follows earlier proposals made by Rosoboronexport during the Dubai Air Show 2025, where they suggested licensed production of advanced air weaponry, integration of Indian technology, and enhanced cooperation on next-generation defense platforms.
The collaborative proposal for the Su-57 is structured into a dual-track approach, offering India ready-to-fly aircraft from Russian production facilities while gradually transitioning to localized manufacturing in India. This initiative promises technology transfer in crucial areas such as engines, optics, AESA radars, artificial intelligence systems, stealth materials, and advanced weaponry. Furthermore, discussions will likely cover the joint development of a two-seat variant of the Su-57E, which may breathe new life into components of the earlier Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) initiative.
Peskov pointed to the successful Indo-Russian collaboration on the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile as a model for future defense partnerships, highlighting that the discussions will not only center on procurement but will also aim to establish deep, long-term technological alliances.
In addition to aviation defense, nuclear energy cooperation is anticipated to play a significant role in the discussions. Russia intends to offer small modular reactors, drawing on extensive operational experience, and is proposing mutual investments to expand joint projects, including the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant.
Peskov also addressed the recent blasts in Delhi, drawing parallels to Russia’s experience with terrorism and advocating for unified global efforts to confront this menace.
President Putin’s visit, at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, will culminate in the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit. During this meeting, both leaders are expected to review advancements in various sectors, including defense, strategic partnerships, and energy.
Reports have surfaced indicating that India is considering procuring up to five additional S-400 regiments, citing their success during Operation Sindoor. Conversations may also extend to submarines and helicopters, with exploratory talks on the S-500 air defense system on the table.
This summit aims to strengthen the enduring bond of the Indo-Russian “Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership,” even as the landscape of global geopolitics continues to shift.
