New Delhi: As New Delhi gears up to host the 18th BRICS Summit at Bharat Mandapam, high-level diplomatic and defense engagements have taken center stage. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin are scheduled to hold a crucial bilateral meeting on September 11, setting the tone for regional cooperation and major strategic discussions.
According to diplomatic circles, defense collaboration will dominate the agenda between the two long-standing partners. Discussions are expected to focus heavily on the potential acquisition of Russia’s fifth-generation stealth fighter jet, the Su-57, alongside pending deliveries of the S-400 Triumf air defense systems and prospective upgrades to the jointly developed BrahMos supersonic cruise missile.
The prospective Su-57 deal has drawn significant global attention. Defense analysts note that while India currently operates advanced platforms like the French-origin Rafale, acquiring the multirole Su-57 would provide an advanced fifth-generation capability equipped with superior stealth technology and long-range weaponry such as the R-77M missile. Sources suggest that any potential procurement discussion will likely emphasize technology transfer and indigenous co-production, aligning with India’s long-term push for defense self-reliance under the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative.
In addition to the fighter jet talks, the two leaders are expected to review the delivery schedule of the final S-400 air defense squadron, which faced minor delays due to ongoing regional conflicts. Furthermore, discussions will encompass broader economic frameworks, bilateral trade, and joint manufacturing initiatives to navigate evolving geopolitical dynamics.
The high-stakes meeting precedes the two-day BRICS leaders’ summit, where member states and international delegates will deliberate on multilateral economic growth, regional security, and financial stability.