The preparations for Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India have triggered one of the most extensive security deployments seen in recent years. With multiple high-profile events scheduled across Delhi, both Indian and Russian agencies have coordinated a multi-layered protection system to ensure absolute safety throughout the two-day visit. The strengthened protocols reflect the heightened importance of this diplomatic engagement and the need for seamless movement across sensitive locations.
Dozens of elite officers from Russia arrived in Delhi ahead of the President’s landing, joining forces with India’s top security units. The coordination spans the National Security Guard, Delhi Police, specialised surveillance teams, and cutting-edge technology units. Putin’s itinerary includes ceremonial events, bilateral meetings, commemorations, and strategic discussions, making a continuous security framework critical for every step of his movement.
The deployment features a powerful mix of human expertise and technological precision. From commandos and snipers to drones and AI-based monitoring systems, every component is designed to form an impenetrable shield. The planning started well in advance, with teams scanning routes, sanitising sites, and setting up real-time control rooms to maintain uninterrupted oversight. This elaborate arrangement highlights the magnitude of a visit that blends diplomacy, security, and strategic cooperation.
Arrival Preparations and Joint Security Coordination
In the days leading up to President Putin’s arrival, over four dozen officers from Russia’s elite Presidential Security Service reached Delhi. These personnel have been working closely with their Indian counterparts to secure every point on the President’s planned routes. Their efforts include meticulous inspections and tactical preparations at hotels, ceremonial venues, government buildings, and key public areas.
Indian agencies, including the NSG and Delhi Police, have been on ground to conduct sanitisation drives along all routes where the convoy is expected to pass. Surveillance teams equipped with specialised drones have been monitoring activity from rooftops, open spaces, and high-rise buildings. These drones feed live visuals into the central control room, allowing instant assessment of any potential risk or unusual movement.
Multiple sniper units have been deployed at strategic vantage points to cover all approach routes. With the combined presence of Russian and Indian officers, the security grid reflects a dual-layered approach that merges advanced tactical methods with detailed ground monitoring.
Putin’s Itinerary and Movement Protocols
The Russian President is set to attend the India-Russia Annual Summit following an invitation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. His visit includes a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan, a tribute at Mahatma Gandhi’s memorial in Raj Ghat, high-level discussions at Hyderabad House, and a major event at Bharat Mandapam. Additionally, a banquet hosted by President Droupadi Murmu forms part of the diplomatic calendar.
Given the tight schedule, security teams have prepared for continuous movement across various zones in Delhi. Each venue has undergone extensive scanning and clearance procedures. Backup routes, along with potential last-minute destinations, have also been identified and secured to maintain operational fluidity.
Every member of the security detail remains connected to the central control room for real-time updates. This communication loop enables coordinated positioning, swift decision-making, and synchronisation among all participating units. At every major public interface, multiple security layers merge seamlessly to ensure no breach or disruption occurs.
Deep Dive into the Five-Layer Ring of Protection
The five-layer security structure is designed to function instantly upon the President’s landing. The outermost rings are overseen by the NSG and Delhi Police, who manage crowd control, perimeter protection, and public monitoring. These layers act as the first line of defence and maintain clearance boundaries along the President’s movement corridors.
As one moves closer to the President’s location, inner layers come into effect. Officers from Russia’s Presidential Security take charge of the high-security perimeter. These personnel specialise in close protection, counter-surveillance, and rapid neutralisation tactics. Their presence forms the backbone of the inner fortress around the Russian leader.
Whenever President Putin is accompanied by Prime Minister Modi, India’s Special Protection Group (SPG) joins the inner ring. The SPG is trained specifically for VIP and VVIP protection, offering an additional shield within the highest security zone. This collaboration ensures both leaders remain under maximum protective cover.
Advanced Tech Deployment: Drones, Jammers and AI
One of the standout features of the security grid is the integration of advanced technology. A fleet of aerial drones has been deployed for surveillance, providing continuous visuals of the convoy’s surroundings. These drones monitor crowds, rooftops, and potential blind spots, feeding footage directly to command centres.
AI-based monitoring systems and facial recognition tools have been installed across key checkpoints. These systems can identify suspicious movement, flag anomalies, and track patterns in real time. Jammers have been set up to block unauthorised communication signals, preventing remote-trigger devices from operating in sensitive zones.
The combination of human intelligence and automated monitoring forms a multi-dimensional security approach. Every device, system, and unit operates within an interconnected framework that enhances efficiency and minimises response times, ensuring the highest possible safety standards.
Hotel Security and Location Sanitisation
The hotel designated for President Putin’s stay has undergone rigorous security checks. Floors, corridors, service areas, and external premises have been secured by a joint task force. Russian officers have conducted independent verification of all protective measures, including emergency exit routes and surveillance systems.
All locations on Putin’s itinerary have been repeatedly scanned to eliminate vulnerabilities. Teams have also assessed surrounding areas, including zones not on the official schedule but identified as potential impromptu stops. This ensures flexibility while maintaining high-security consistency.
The coordination between Indian and Russian security units has allowed for a layered approach to venue sanitisation. Suites, meeting rooms, dining areas, and ceremonial spaces have been equipped with additional safeguards, creating a controlled environment for all engagements.
Aurus Senat: The 'Fortress-on-Wheels'
A highlight of the security detail is the arrival of the Aurus Senat, the armoured limousine used by President Putin. Known for its imposing build and high defensive capabilities, the Senat has been flown in from Moscow exclusively for this visit. It previously made an appearance during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit attended by both Putin and Prime Minister Modi.
Designed under the Russian “Kortezh” project, the Aurus Senat is a full-size luxury armoured vehicle engineered to withstand ballistic threats, explosive impacts, and high-intensity assaults. It features reinforced armour, advanced communication systems, and custom-built safety upgrades tailored for high-risk environments.
This limousine symbolises the strength and precision of Russian engineering while also serving as a key component of the President’s protection strategy. With both ground and aerial units supporting its movement, the Senat fits seamlessly into the layered security formation.
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About the Author:
Harshit Raj
