Russian president Vladimir Putin arrived in Delhi on September 11, for the 18th BRICS Summit aboard one of the most heavily guarded aircraft in the world— the specially modified Ilyushin Il-96-300PU, popularly known as the “Flying Kremlin” or, in some reports, Putin’s “Doomsday Plane”.
Putin is in India for a three-day visit during which, he is holding talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and attending the BRICS summit.
Its importance lies in allowing the Russian president to continue communicating securely while airborne, even during situations in which conventional communications could be compromised. The tactic is intended to make it difficult for outsiders to determine which aircraft is carrying Putin. Both jets have a similar appearance, making the president’s exact location harder to identify. It also has dedicated dining and kitchen areas, along with a medical compartment. Some media reports have also claimed that the aircraft includes a fitness area to accommodate the president’s exercise routine. Putin’s arrival has drawn attention during the BRICS Summit, where leaders of major emerging economies are meeting in New Delhi. His aircraft landed at Palam Air Force Station amid extensive security arrangements surrounding the Russian president’s visit.
That designation is generally associated with the Ilyushin Il-80, which was specifically developed as an airborne command post designed to maintain strategic command and control during a nuclear conflict or other major national emergency, according to a report by OneIndia. The Il-96-300PU used by Putin is primarily a presidential command and transport aircraft. One of the most striking aspects of Putin’s aircraft arrangements is the use of two identical Il-96-300PU aircraft. The Il-96-300PU is equipped with a private presidential suite featuring a bedroom, a spacious conference room with boardroom-style seating, a private office and a guest lounge.
The Il-96-300PU is not Russia’s dedicated “Doomsday Plane”. Both aircrafts were used during his journey to India, with the planes flying simultaneously, according to a report by NDTV.
