Putin brings his 'Flying Kremlin' to India for Brics: What makes the 'Doomsday Plane' different?

Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in New Delhi for a summit and bilateral talks. He traveled on a specially modified Ilyushin IL-96-300PU aircraft for security. This aircraft functions as a mobile command center with advanced communication systems. The United States operates comparable aircraft for its own national command needs. These planes are designed for survivability during national emergencies and conflicts.

Source: Times of India September 11, 2026 11:58 UTC