Russian President Vladimir Putin has said India occupies a reliable and privileged place in Moscow’s defence partnership, stressing that the relationship goes far beyond a buyer–seller equation and is rooted in deep technological trust. He made the remarks in a World Exclusive conversation with India Today TV, responding to detailed questions on the S-400 air defence system, the more advanced S-500, and the fifth-generation Su-57 fighter jet.

When asked about India’s pending delivery of five S-400 units — which played crucial role during Operation Sindoor — Putin chose not to give a timeline but used the moment to underline what he called a uniquely transparent and trusted military partnership.

“You seem to be an expert on the issue,” he began with a smile, “as if we’re engaged in negotiations on military-technical cooperation.” He then shifted into a broader explanation of the relationship. “India stands out as one of our reliable and privileged partners in this area. We are not merely selling something to India, and India isn’t merely buying something from us in the sphere of defence and security.”

Calling it a different level, a different quality of relations, Putin said Moscow values the trust New Delhi places in the partnership — and sees clearly that India values it too. He highlighted what he described as a rare level of openness: “We are not simply selling technology, we are sharing it.”

He pointed to a wide cooperation portfolio that includes naval construction, rocket and missile engineering and aircraft development. On the question of future platforms such as the Su-57, Putin noted that India already operates several Russian-made aircraft and continues to co-produce key systems.

He cited the BrahMos missile project as one of the clearest examples of trust and joint innovation. “The famous BrahMos missile is manufactured primarily at Indian facilities. Therefore, Prime Minister Modi’s Make in India initiative should be implemented in this area as well,” he said.

Putin also praised India’s production of Russian-origin armoured systems. “India is manufacturing our renowned T-19 tanks. Trust me when I tell you these tanks rank among the best in the world,” he added.

He stressed that the cooperation between military personnel on both sides has given Indian specialists a sharper understanding of how Russian weapons perform in real conditions. “This is an extremely important understanding, shared by both Indian and Russian sides,” he said.

Putin’s remarks come ahead of his summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a two-day state visit. The Russian leader also offered warm praise for Modi, calling his leadership decisive and focused on long-term national goals.

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