Russian President Vladimir Putin’s arrival in New Delhi for the BRICS Summit has once again drawn attention to the extraordinary security measures surrounding his overseas travel. Among the biggest points of interest is the heavily customised aircraft used by the Russian leader, commonly referred to as the “Flying Kremlin” or “Doomsday Plane”.
Putin arrived in India on Friday for a three-day visit and is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his stay. The talks are expected to cover areas including bilateral trade, investment and energy cooperation.
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The Russian President travelled in one of two identical Ilyushin IL-96-300PU aircraft operated by Russia’s Special Flight Squadron, which handles presidential travel. Both aircraft can fly simultaneously, making it difficult for outsiders to determine which one is carrying Putin. The use of an identical aircraft as a decoy is part of the security arrangements employed for the Russian President during international travel.
The IL-96-300PU is a specially modified version of the Russian-made Ilyushin IL-96-300. Developed from the long-range IL-96 platform, the aircraft is designed to function not only as presidential transport but also as a secure airborne command centre.
The aircraft was developed by the Ilyushin Design Bureau, with the IL-96 family dating back to the 1980s. Powered by four Aviadvigatel PS-90A turbofan engines, the aircraft can reportedly travel around 11,000 kilometres without requiring multiple refuelling stops on long journeys.
The aircraft measures about 55.35 metres in length and has a wingspan of 60.12 metres. But its most important features are hidden inside and are related to communication and security rather than its size.
The presidential aircraft is equipped with encrypted communication systems that can connect securely with Russia’s military, intelligence and government networks. Satellite links, protected radio systems and secure data channels allow communications to be maintained during a crisis or emergency.
The aircraft is also reported to have radar-jamming capabilities and advanced defensive systems, adding another layer of protection for the Russian leadership. These features are particularly important because the aircraft is designed to remain operational as a mobile command centre during a national emergency.
Despite its military and communications role, the aircraft is also designed with considerable luxury. The presidential section includes a private suite with bedrooms, bathrooms, a kitchen and dining areas. There is also a large conference room with boardroom-style seating.
Reports have also described the interiors as featuring rich woodwork, premium leather and upholstery and gold-plated fittings.
The aircraft’s “Doomsday Plane” nickname reflects its ability to serve as a secure command centre in extreme circumstances. Rather than simply transporting Putin from one country to another, the aircraft is designed to keep the Russian leadership connected with critical state and security networks even during a major crisis.
For Putin, the aircraft therefore serves two purposes: presidential transport and a highly protected airborne headquarters. Its presence in India has provided another glimpse into the extensive security arrangements surrounding one of the world’s most closely guarded leaders.
