New momentum in India-Russia relations: 10 important defense agendas of Modi-Putin meeting

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s two-day visit to New Delhi on December 4-5, 2025, for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit, underlines the deep strategic ties amid global tensions. Defense dominates the agenda, with talks focused on upgrades, acquisitions and joint ventures to enhance India’s capabilities, building on successes like Operation Vermillion in May 2025 – where S-400 systems shot down Pakistani drones/missiles and BrahMos strikes crippled 11 airbases. Here are the details of the top 10 priorities:

1. Su-30MKI Overhaul Phase II: Joint upgrade with Russia of ~100 of the 272 jets, separate from HAL’s domestic work on 84, to extend lifespan and boost avionics/sensors.
2. R-37 Air-to-Air Missiles: Acquisition of 300+ units with 200km+ range for IAF fighters to counter Chinese/US BVR threats.
3. S-400 missile replenishment: Approval for 280-300 missiles for existing regiments, post Vermilion efficacy; Potential for 2-3 more squadrons ($5B+ deal).
4. S-500 Advanced Air Defense: Review of Integration for Hypersonic Threats to Complement the S-400.
5. Verba Short-Range System: Strengthening very short-range air defense for layered defense.
6. Su-57 stealth fighter: Moscow offers licensed production/technology transfer; India eyes 5th gen gains amid AMCA delay.
7. BrahMos-NG (Next Gen): Lighter version for Tejas/Rafale (1.33 tonne), 400km+ range, 6-7 per jet; Flight testing by end of 2025.
8. Extended-range BrahMos: Variant with triple the reach of the current 300-600km for deep strikes. 9. Hypersonic missiles (BrahMos-II): Resuming co-development (Mach 6-8, 1,500km range) inspired by Zircon; DRDO’s scramjet test cleared the way.
9. BrahMos export and integration: After success in Philippines, eyeing Vietnam/Indonesia deal; Emphasis on indigenization in Navy/Army/Air Force.

Amid risks of US sanctions, these agreements confirm Russia’s 36% share in India’s imports (SIPRI 2025). The outcomes include a 2030 economic roadmap, reLOS agreement to drill, and technology transfer for self-reliance. As Modi hosts Putin, it is expected that agreements will be signed taking trade between the two countries to $100B+ by 2030.