India and Russia are set to discuss a broad range of defence and strategic cooperation issues when Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets Russian President Vladimir Putin during the BRICS Summit in New Delhi on September 11.

The proposed sale of Russia's fifth-generation Su-57 fighter aircraft is expected to be among the major defence issues under discussion. Moscow has indicated that the Su-57 and related technology cooperation are significant items on Putin's agenda, although there is no confirmed agreement for India to purchase 75 aircraft worth ₹1 lakh crore at this stage.

Su-57 deal remains under discussion

The Su-57 is Russia's fifth-generation stealth fighter and is being positioned by Moscow as an advanced combat aircraft option for India.

Recent reporting indicates that Russia is seeking deeper cooperation with India on the aircraft, including possible technology sharing. For New Delhi, access to advanced fighter technology could become an important component of future aerospace cooperation.

However, the exact number of aircraft, contract value and terms of technology transfer remain subject to negotiations.

Su-30MKI capability upgrade

The discussions are also expected to cover the modernisation of India's existing Russian-origin fighter fleet.

One area of interest is strengthening the long-range strike capability of the Su-30MKI fleet through advanced air-to-air missiles and other upgrades. Reports have linked discussions to Russia's R-37M long-range air-to-air missile.

Such weapons are designed for engaging high-value targets at long distances, although specific Indian procurement details should not be treated as final unless officially announced.

S-400 cooperation continues

India and Russia are also expected to review air-defence cooperation, including the S-400 missile system.

India had signed a $5.43-billion contract with Russia for five S-400 systems. The system has become an important component of India's layered air-defence architecture.

Future discussions could involve additional air-defence requirements and technology cooperation, but any fresh acquisition would require formal approval and contracting.

Nuclear and strategic cooperation

Beyond fighter aircraft and missiles, India and Russia are also discussing cooperation in the nuclear-energy sector.

Recent reporting ahead of the Modi-Putin meeting said India has sought greater Russian participation in new nuclear power projects and broader technology cooperation.

The two countries have maintained extensive defence, energy and strategic ties for decades, making the September 11 meeting important beyond any single weapons programme.

Modi-Putin meeting on September 11

Putin is scheduled to visit India for the 18th BRICS Summit, which will be held in New Delhi on September 12 and 13. His bilateral meeting with Modi is expected on September 11.

Trade, energy, defence, payments, technology and international conflicts are expected to form part of the broader India-Russia discussions.

The talks will therefore be watched closely for any announcement concerning the Su-57, but a reported proposal should not be confused with a signed procurement contract.

India has significantly strengthened the security of the strategically vital Siliguri Corridor, long known as the country's "Chicken's Neck," through new military deployments, advanced air defence systems and infrastructure upgrades. The developments come as the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully tested its Kusha air defence missile system, while neighbouring Pakistan faces growing political and security challenges in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Balochistan.

The latest military and strategic developments underline India's focus on enhancing border security amid evolving regional security dynamics.

Siliguri Corridor Gets Stronger Military Shield

The Siliguri Corridor, a narrow stretch of land in West Bengal that connects India's northeastern states with the rest of the country, has long been regarded as one of India's most sensitive strategic zones.

At its narrowest point, the corridor measures only about 22 kilometres and is surrounded by Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and China's Chumbi Valley.

To reinforce the region, the Indian Army has established three new military stations:

• Lachit Borphukan Military Station (Assam): Strengthens logistics for the eastern theatre.
• Kishanganj Military Station (Bihar): Monitors the western approach towards the corridor.
• Chopra Military Station (West Bengal): Enhances surveillance close to the international border.

These facilities complement existing Border Security Force (BSF) deployments, significantly improving monitoring and operational readiness.

Army officials are increasingly referring to the corridor as the "Elephant's Trunk," reflecting greater confidence in its strengthened defences.

Advanced Weapons Deployed Near Chumbi Valley

India has also enhanced military capabilities in the region by deploying advanced assets under the Trishakti Corps.

These include:

• S-400 air defence missile systems
• BrahMos supersonic cruise missile regiments
• Rafale fighter aircraft operating from Hasimara Air Base

The deployments are aimed at strengthening India's preparedness along the China-facing frontier, particularly around the strategically significant Chumbi Valley, which was at the centre of the 2017 Doklam standoff.

Military planners believe the combination of long-range missiles, integrated radar coverage and modern fighter aircraft substantially improves India's defensive posture.

Alternative Connectivity Reduces Strategic Vulnerability

India has also developed alternate connectivity routes to reduce dependence on the Siliguri Corridor.

Projects such as the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project through Myanmar, along with new railway and highway links to the Northeast, provide additional logistical options should the corridor ever face disruption.

These alternate routes enhance strategic flexibility and reduce the risks associated with relying on a single land corridor.

DRDO Successfully Tests Kusha Air Defence Missile

In another major defence milestone, DRDO successfully conducted a test of the indigenous Kusha air defence missile system.

The interceptor reportedly achieved a direct hit on its intended target, demonstrating India's growing capability in developing long-range air defence technologies.

The Kusha system is being developed as India's indigenous long-range air defence platform and is expected to strengthen protection against enemy aircraft, cruise missiles and certain ballistic missile threats once fully operational.

The successful trial represents another step toward greater self-reliance in defence technology under India's indigenous defence programmes.

Pakistan Faces Political Turmoil in PoK

While India continues strengthening its defence capabilities, Pakistan is dealing with growing political unrest in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Reports suggest former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif is seeking a leadership role in PoK, a move that has sparked political debate because of constitutional provisions concerning domicile requirements.

The issue comes amid continuing protests, economic grievances and security restrictions in the region.

India has consistently maintained that the entire Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, including areas under Pakistan's control, are integral parts of India.

Balochistan Remains Under Pressure

Pakistan is also facing intensified insurgent activity in Balochistan, where militant attacks targeting security forces have increased in recent months.

The violence has reportedly prompted calls for additional security measures and renewed discussions over the province's stability.

Analysts believe the deteriorating security situation poses another major challenge for Islamabad as it simultaneously deals with political tensions and economic pressures.

India Reiterates Position on Kashmir and Terrorism

At the United Nations Security Council, India recently reaffirmed its long-standing position that Jammu and Kashmir is an internal matter and rejected Pakistan's attempts to internationalise the issue.

India also reiterated that meaningful dialogue cannot proceed while cross-border terrorism continues.

On the Indus Waters Treaty, New Delhi maintained that restoring trust requires credible action against terrorism before normal engagement can resume.