Russia is reportedly preparing to invite India to participate in the Il-100 Slon super-heavy military transport aircraft program, a move that could enhance the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) capabilities amid challenges posed by its aging Il-76 fleet. The Il-100, designed for versatility and capable of operating from short runways, offers a significant increase in payload capacity and range compared to existing aircraft. This collaboration could deepen India-Russia defense ties, providing a strategic avenue for India to modernize its airlift capabilities, although it is essential to weigh the benefits of co-development against long timelines and reliance on a single foreign supplier.