Russia, India discuss more S-400 missile system deliveries.

Post by : Monika

Photo: Reuters

India and Russia are currently in important talks about supplying more S-400 missile defense systems to India. This news was confirmed by Dmitry Shugayev, the head of Russia’s Federal Service for Military-

Technical Cooperation, who stated that India already operates the S-400 system and new deliveries are being discussed. These talks show a strong cooperation between the two countries in the field of defense and security.

Background on the S-400 Deal
India had first signed a significant agreement with Russia back in 2018. Under this deal, India agreed to buy five S-400 Triumf long-range surface-to-air missile systems for $5.5 billion.

These missile systems are designed to protect India’s airspace by detecting and destroying enemy aircraft, drones, and missiles at distances of up to 400 kilometers. They are considered one of the most advanced air defense systems in the world and are crucial for India’s security, especially considering its geopolitical challenges.

Although three of these systems have already been delivered and deployed in different parts of India, the delivery of the last two units has been delayed multiple times. Current plans suggest that these final two units will arrive in India in 2026 and 2027.

Importance of the S-400 System for India
The S-400 missile systems help India protect its skies against threats primarily from neighboring countries China and Pakistan. Recently, the Indian Air Force praised the S-400 system for its significant role during “Operation Sindoor,” which was a military operation involving retaliatory air strikes against Pakistan. During this operation, the S-400 systems successfully intercepted and destroyed several incoming missiles, proving their effectiveness and earning the nickname “game-changer” in Indian defense circles.

India’s military relies heavily on the S-400 to create a protective shield around critical areas and to detect and neutralize enemy airborne threats before they can cause damage.

India-Russia Defense Partnership
The defense relationship between India and Russia is longstanding and strong. Over the years, the two countries have collaborated on many important defense projects. This includes licensed production of T-90 tanks, Sukhoi Su-30 MKI fighter jets, MiG-29 and Kamov helicopters, and the manufacturing of AK-203 assault rifles in India. The famous aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya, formerly called Admiral Gorshkov, was also supplied by Russia.

Another joint project is the BrahMos missile program, which is a highly advanced supersonic cruise missile developed together by India and Russia. These collaborations have made Russia India’s top arms supplier, accounting for about 36% of India’s weapons imports from 2020 to 2024, even as India buys some arms from France and Israel.

Current Political Context
The talks come at a time when India faces pressure from the United States to limit its purchases of Russian military equipment and energy resources. US officials have imposed tariffs and expressed concern over India’s growing trade relationship with Russia, especially regarding oil imports. Despite this, India has maintained its strategic partnership with Russia, highlighting its need for strong defense ties and energy security.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov publicly praised India for not giving in to US demands, appreciating India’s independent stance. This support strengthens the trust and cooperation between Moscow and New Delhi.

High-Level Meetings and Future Prospects
During the recent Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit held in China, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Russian President Vladimir Putin. The two leaders shared a friendly moment, demonstrating the warmth of their relationship. Modi described Putin as a “dear friend,” and reaffirmed India’s close partnership with Russia even during difficult times.

Looking ahead, India hopes that buying more S-400 missile systems could help increase its air defense strength significantly. There is also talk about potential co-operation in other areas, including the supply of advanced Russian Su-57 fighter jets.

How the S-400 Works
The S-400 Triumf is a complex and highly capable air defense system. It can track and destroy multiple targets at once, including stealth fighter jets, drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles. The system has a firing range of about 400 kilometers and can detect threats up to 600 kilometers away.

Each S-400 regiment consists of multiple launch vehicles, radar systems, and command centers. A launch vehicle carries four missile tubes, each capable of firing long or medium-range missiles. Its mobility also allows rapid deployment and response across different locations.

Why This Is a Big Deal for India
India is in a challenging neighborhood with border tensions, especially with China to the north and Pakistan to the west. Strengthening its air defense capabilities with systems like the S-400 helps protect Indian cities, military bases, and critical infrastructure from sudden attacks.

The delivery of the remaining S-400 systems, along with potential purchases of newer units, could also help India's ambitious defense projects, like the “Sudarshan Chakra” air defense framework mentioned by Prime Minister Modi. This multilayer defense system aims to integrate radar, cyber defense, and missile defenses to create a strong shield over the entire country.

In simple terms, India is buying strong and advanced missile defense systems called S-400 from Russia. These missile systems act like a shield in the sky, stopping enemy aircraft and missiles from coming close. India already has some S-400 systems, and now they are talking with Russia about buying more to stay even safer.

India and Russia are old friends who work together in defense to keep the country safe. Even though some countries like the United States want India to stop buying from Russia, India believes these missile systems are very important too. Leaders of both countries meet and talk regularly to keep their friendship strong.

The S-400 missile system is very powerful and can find and stop many different flying dangers from far away. It helps protect the land and people by acting quickly like a guardian in the sky.

Russia-India defense talks