India Eyes Major S-400, R-37M, Su-30MKI Deal With Russia After Trump Row

India-Russia Defence Ties Deepen: Su-30MKIs to Get R-37M Missiles, AESA Radars in Strategic Shift

New Delhi/Moscow: India is reinforcing its defence cooperation with Russia in a decisive move that goes beyond symbolic diplomacy. At the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Qingdao, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met with his Russian counterpart, Andrei Belousov, signaling a strategic pivot amid growing geopolitical shifts.

India is planning a significant upgrade of its Su-30MKI fighter fleet by equipping them with long-range R-37M air-to-air missiles and advanced AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) radars. Crucially, the upgrades will be supported by a domestic production line—ensuring faster deployment and adherence to the 'Make in India' initiative.

The push for advanced air capabilities comes at a time of diplomatic chill, particularly after the muted response from Washington following India’s Operation Sindoor, where Su-30s deployed BrahMos missiles in Pakistani territory. India's pivot toward Russia is being seen not as abandonment of Western ties, but a strategic recalibration toward a time-tested ally.

Moscow’s offer goes beyond arms—Russia has provided full access to source codes and integration rights, allowing India to upgrade its aircraft with indigenous systems. This contrasts sharply with the constraints faced during the Rafale deal with France.

The indigenous Virupaksha AESA radar, set to be integrated into the Su-30MKIs, features over 2,400 GaN modules and can detect targets up to 600 km away. However, retrofitting these radars requires deep collaboration with Russian engineers, given the complexities of the Su-30MKI airframe.

Once completed, the upgraded Su-30MKIs will carry the R-37M—a missile capable of neutralizing targets over 300 km away—marking a substantial leap in India’s air-to-air combat range. These improvements are part of a larger reworking of India’s air defence ecosystem, including the integration of S-400 systems, satellite-linked sensors, and advanced airborne early warning platforms.

Experts suggest this transformation is building a seamless “kill chain” with long-range vision and strike capabilities. It’s not just about acquiring military assets—it’s about gaining strategic autonomy.

India’s deepening defence partnership with Russia now reflects more than transactions. It embodies trust, technology transfer, and the crafting of sovereign capabilities. Amid global shifts and uncertain alliances, India is choosing self-reliance—with Moscow’s backing and its own growing expertise.