Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India triggered an unprecedented buzz across global aviation trackers on Thursday, turning his presidential jet into the most-tracked flight in the world. Millions of users on FlightRadar24 followed the aircraft in real time — a rare phenomenon that showcased the intense curiosity and geopolitical significance of the high-profile visit.
The Russian IL-96 aircraft, famously known as the “Flying Kremlin,” attracted record-breaking attention as it made its way to New Delhi. FlightRadar24 officially confirmed:
“Our most-tracked flight to date: one of Russia’s government aircraft en route to India.”
Screenshots, live-route maps, theories on security tactics and speculation flooded social media, making Putin’s journey a global digital event.
Putin Arrives in Delhi to a Warm Welcome From PM Modi
Upon landing in New Delhi, President Putin was personally received by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, highlighting the close diplomatic ties between the two nations. The leaders exchanged a warm greeting before proceeding to the 22nd Annual India–Russia Summit, where a wide range of strategic issues — defence collaboration, nuclear energy, hydrocarbons, long-term investment and global security — are expected to dominate discussions.
Two-Aircraft Strategy: Russia’s High-Security Aviation Protocol in Motion
A remarkable detail caught global attention:
Two Russian government aircraft were spotted in the region, operating under a sophisticated security protocol.
Observers noted:
●One aircraft turned off its transponder mid-route
●The second aircraft maintained normal transmission
●Later, the roles reversed
This tactic, used by several major powers, is designed to obscure the actual aircraft carrying the head of state, minimizing any potential threats.
A transponder broadcasts flight data like speed and location. Switching it off creates ambiguity — a deliberate move during high-risk international travel.
Inside Putin’s IL-96-300PU — The “Flying Kremlin”
Putin travels in the ultra-secure IL-96-300PU, considered one of the safest presidential aircraft in the world. It features:
●Missile-defense countermeasures
●Encrypted communication command centre
●Reinforced airframe
●Luxury interiors for long diplomatic missions
He is usually accompanied by:
●His Aurus Senat armoured limousine
●A secondary IL-96 aircraft equipped for backup and command operations
The aircraft serves not just as transportation, but as a mobile command hub capable of managing Russia’s state operations mid-flight if needed.
Why the World Is Watching: What This Frenzy Reveals
1. Geopolitical Stakes Are High
The Modi–Putin meeting carries weight amid shifting global alliances, energy security challenges and defence procurement recalibrations.
2. Public Fascination With Putin’s Movements
Record-breaking flight tracking shows how closely the world monitors Putin — especially during visits to major global partners like India.
3. Showcase of Russian VVIP Security Architecture
The dual-aircraft maneuvering highlighted Russia’s elaborate aviation security playbook, adding to the global intrigue.
Putin’s aircraft becoming the world’s most-tracked flight underscores the extraordinary global interest in his India visit. As the leaders meet in New Delhi, the summit is expected to shape new contours of cooperation in defence, energy, trade and long-term strategic alignment — all while the world watches more closely than ever.
