Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India from December 4 to 5 is going to be a high-profile chapter in the India-Russia relationship.
The 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set against a backdrop of heightened global tensions, and with it comes one of the most elaborate security operations in recent memory.
Tight security for Putin
Delhi will be under one of the strictest security protocols the city has ever seen, as Putin begins his visit to the Indian capital. A multi-layered protection plan will envelop the Russian president, ensuring his safety at all times.
At the core of this system is the Russian Presidential Security Service, a team known for its elite training, rigorous selection process, and loyalty checks. These security experts, highly trusted by the Kremlin, will form the innermost layer around Putin. Their preparation includes not only intense physical tests but also psychological evaluations, medical units, food tasters, and high-tech surveillance equipment.
While Putin’s Russian security team forms the closest ring, the National Security Guard (NSG) will take up the second layer of protection, focusing on the perimeter with their counterterrorism and VVIP security expertise. In addition to the NSG, Delhi Police and paramilitary forces will further fortify key zones and buildings, ensuring no space is left unprotected.
Perhaps the most striking part of the operation is the use of snipers stationed on rooftops across strategic locations, drones monitoring the airspace, and sophisticated anti-drone systems that will prevent any aerial threats.
To top it off, AI-powered facial recognition technology will scan crowds for potential risks, while strict traffic restrictions and sanitized routes will ensure Putin’s movements remain as secure as possible.
Putin’s fortress on wheels
At the center of this fortress of protection is Putin’s trusted mode of transport, the Aurus Senat. Described as a “fortress on wheels,” this state-of-the-art, fully-armoured luxury limousine has been built to withstand the harshest of threats ie, explosives, sniper fire, and even chemical attacks.
The Aurus Senat, part of Russia’s Kortezh program, is designed for top government officials and has features like an airtight cabin, an independent oxygen supply, and encrypted communications systems.
The vehicle is not just about physical protection; it is a rolling command center. Equipped with surveillance equipment, encrypted radios, and live monitoring of security feeds, the Aurus Senat ensures that Putin remains safe and in control, wherever he goes.
Seamless cooperation between Indian and Russian security forces
The coordination between Indian and Russian security forces during Putin’s visit will be a rare and striking example of international collaboration.
As soon as Putin’s plane touches down, the multi-layered security system will spring into action. The outermost ring, secured by Delhi Police, will gradually transition to the NSG, while Russian agents will operate the innermost perimeter.
For the rare moments Putin will be in the presence of Prime Minister Modi, India’s elite Special Protection Group (SPG) will integrate with Russian security to form an even tighter protective bubble.
Over 50 Russian security specialists have already arrived in Delhi to work side-by-side with Indian authorities to ensure every route, building, and possible stop along Putin’s schedule is safe.
Each hotel and venue has been repeatedly swept for security, and even potential impromptu locations have been secured in advance.
Russian officials are famously meticulous, employing protocols like the sealing of Putin’s biological waste during foreign visits to prevent any espionage.
Putin’s visit comes at a time when international attention is sharply focused on Russia’s actions. In 2023, the International Criminal Court issued a warrant for Putin’s arrest, though India is not legally obligated to enforce it.
Nevertheless, this legal issue adds another layer of geopolitical complexity to the visit, with the world watching closely.
While the world’s eyes may be focused on the intricacies of the security operation, the real significance lies in the diplomatic discussions that will unfold during the summit.