Putin's plane: An aerial fortress protecting the Russian president in crises

A report describes the Russian presidential aircraft, an Ilyushin IL-96-300PU, which transported President Putin to New Delhi for the BRICS summit. It reviews the advanced security and communication systems that have earned it the nickname "Doomsday plane" or "flying Kremlin," and its ability to function as an airborne command center during crises.

A descriptive report reviews the Russian presidential aircraft, an Ilyushin IL-96-300PU, which transported President Vladimir Putin to the Indian capital New Delhi on Friday for the BRICS summit. The report describes the aircraft as an aerial fortress and an integrated command center, equipped with encrypted and advanced communication systems and satellite communication links, along with defensive systems and technologies designed to enhance presidential protection and maintain communications under exceptional circumstances. The aircraft is known as the Doomsday plane or the flying Kremlin. The report explains that two identical planes took off simultaneously as a security measure to conceal which plane carries the president from any potential threat. The aircraft has a range of about 11,000 kilometers, is powered by four PS-90A engines, is approximately 55 meters long, and has a wingspan exceeding 60 meters. The plane includes luxurious presidential facilities such as bedrooms, bathrooms, a kitchen, and dining and meeting halls. Putin's visit aimed to discuss enhancing cooperation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in trade, investment, and energy.