Russian President Vladimir Putin arrives in India on Thursday for his first visit in four years, accompanied by a special security convoy, centered around a highly secure armored limousine—the Aura Senat. It is one of the most highly secured vehicles used by world leaders.
Putin will meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss bilateral relations and strategic issues and will also attend a state dinner.
The ‘pride’ of Russian technology
The Auras Senat is a presidential limousine made with Russian technology, specifically designed for the security of heads of state. Putin previously used a Mercedes-Benz Pullman, but to reduce import dependence, Russia began developing its own armored vehicles under the ‘Cortez Project’. The Auras Senat was first unveiled at Putin’s inauguration in 2018.
Its mass production began in 2021 and it has been used in various international diplomatic moments. In 2024, Russia also gifted a Senate to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.
Why is it called ‘impenetrable’?
The Auras Senat is completely bulletproof; capable of withstanding missile and drone attacks. It can float even if submerged in water and can travel at high speeds even if its tires are completely destroyed. There is a special air purification system in the cabin to prevent chemical attacks.
The powerful engine enables the car to reach 100 kilometers per hour in 6–9 seconds; it can travel at a maximum speed of about 160 kilometers per hour.
Royal comfort inside
Luxurious leather seats, hand-crafted woodwork, advanced climate control systems, and secure encrypted communications—all in all, this is not just a car, but a fully secure, moving command center.
Price
The commercial version costs around 18 million rubles. However, Putin’s special armored version costs more than twice as much and is not sold on the market.
Source: NDTV