New Delhi: India is in discussions with Russia for the purchase of additional S-400 Triumf missile defence systems following their reported success during Operation Sindoor against Pakistan last year.
Russia’s Federal Service for Military Technical Cooperation confirmed that negotiations are underway for fresh deliveries of the advanced air defence platform. According to Russian officials, the S-400 system demonstrated strong operational capability during Operation Sindoor, prompting India to consider expanding its current inventory beyond the five regimental units ordered under the 2018 defence agreement.
Reports indicate that India’s Defence Acquisition Council has already approved plans to procure five additional S-400 regimental systems. The talks are progressing even as Russia continues deliveries under the earlier 5.4 billion dollar contract signed between the two countries.
India received the first three S-400 systems by 2023, with deployments made along the western and northern borders to strengthen protection against aerial threats. Deliveries of the remaining two units were delayed due to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. However, Russian officials recently confirmed that the delivery schedule is back on track.
The fourth S-400 unit is expected to arrive later this month, while the fifth and final system under the original deal is likely to be delivered in November.
Known in India as “Sudarshan Chakra,” the S-400 played a key role during Operation Sindoor by intercepting hostile aerial threats and safeguarding major Indian air bases and strategic cities. The system is regarded as one of the world’s most advanced long range missile defence platforms, capable of simultaneously tracking and engaging multiple targets.
India is also working to integrate the S-400 network with the indigenous Project Kusha, officially known as the Extended Range Air Defence System. The integration, led by the Defence Ministry and Defence Research and Development Organisation, will operate through the Indian Air Command and Control System to create a nationwide missile defence network.
At the same time, India is moving ahead with a major defence agreement with France for 114 Dassault Rafale fighter jets. Officials said the proposed deal, estimated at around Rs 3.25 lakh crore, will include large scale manufacturing in India under the Make in India programme, with nearly half of the aircraft components expected to be produced domestically.
