India Eyes Su-57 Jets and S-500 Missiles Ahead of Putin’s December Visit

India is preparing to open discussions on acquiring advanced Russian defence platforms—including Su-57 fighter jets and the S-500 air defence system—during President Vladimir Putin’s visit on December 4–5 for the 23rd Annual Summit. According to a Bloomberg report, India is looking to bridge key gaps in its fighter fleet with next-generation systems, even as global geopolitical pressures mount.

Any potential agreement with Moscow could complicate India’s trade dynamics with Washington, which has consistently urged New Delhi to reduce its defence and energy ties with Russia. Despite this, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has upheld India’s long-standing strategic defence partnership with Moscow while diversifying procurement to include the US and Europe. Russia, though its share has dropped significantly, remains India’s largest defence supplier.

India already operates a large fleet of Russian-origin equipment—from Su-30 MKIs to S-400 missile batteries—and officials say the Su-57 could integrate smoothly into the current ecosystem supported by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. While talks are unlikely to conclude during the summit, Russia has renewed offers of next-generation fighter technology, even as several joint projects continue, including the BrahMos missile, AK-203 rifles, T-90 tanks, and stealth frigates.