Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in India in the early hours of Friday with a high-level delegation, drawing attention to the heavily secured aircraft that routinely accompanies him on foreign trips.
One of the world’s most heavily protected leaders, Putin travelled with two identical aircraft from his presidential fleet, with one serving as a decoy, reports NDTV.
The Russian leader rarely travels without his heavily customised Ilyushin IL-96-300PU, which is often referred to as the “Flying Kremlin” or “Doomsday Plane”.
Highly secured
Putin travelled aboard one of two identical Ilyushin IL-96-300PU aircraft that flew simultaneously, making it difficult to determine which aircraft was carrying the Russian president.
Moscow has used the double-aircraft security measure before. Putin has regularly travelled to other countries using the same tactic to strengthen his security.
All about Putin’s ‘Doomsday Plane’
Putin’s presidential aircraft is a specially modified version of the Russian-made Ilyushin IL-96-300PU.
The Ilyushin Design Bureau developed the aircraft in the 1980s. It serves as a highly secure command centre for the Russian president and is designed to protect Russia’s top leadership in worst-case scenarios.
The “Flying Kremlin” uses the long-range IL-96 platform and is powered by four Aviadvigatel PS-90A turbofan engines. It can cover around 11,000 kilometres in a single flight, reducing the need for multiple refuelling stops on long journeys.
The aircraft measures 55.35 metres in length and has a wingspan of 60.12 metres.
Russia’s Special Flight Squadron, which manages presidential air travel, operates the aircraft.
The IL-96-300PU can function as a fully equipped mobile command centre during national emergencies.
Its encrypted communication systems can securely connect the Russian president with military, intelligence and government networks from anywhere in the world.
The aircraft also has radar-jamming technology and advanced defensive systems. Satellite links, along with protected radio and data channels, allow it to maintain secure and uninterrupted communications.
Beyond its security features, the “Flying Kremlin” offers extensive luxury. The aircraft includes a private presidential suite with bedrooms, luxurious bathrooms, a private kitchen and dining areas, as well as a large conference room with boardroom-style seating.
It also features gold-plated fittings, rich woodwork, premium leather and upholstery, among other luxury touches.
