India is planning to buy a large number of missiles worth around Rs 10,000 crore from Russia to strengthen the capabilities of ‘Sudarshan’ S-400 air defence systems. The S-400 system, a critical component of the Indian Air Force’s air defence network, was instrumental during a four-day conflict when it brought down five to six Pakistani fighter aircraft and one spy plane more than 300 km inside Pakistan’s territory.
The system has since been described by the IAF as a “game-changer.” The Defence Ministry is likely to consider the IAF’s proposal for approval at the upcoming Defence Acquisition Council meeting scheduled for October 23.
India and Russia had earlier signed a contract in 2018 for the procurement of five S-400 squadrons. So far, three squadrons have been delivered and are operational, while the supply of the remaining two was delayed due to the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
The Indian side has also expressed interest in acquiring additional S-400 squadrons and has requested Russia to deliver the pending units. Discussions have also touched on the possible induction of S-500 air defence systems in the future. In addition, India is evaluating options to procure new air-to-air missiles from Russia to enhance its beyond-visual-range combat capabilities.
Both nations are also exploring ways to upgrade the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile and its variants. India and Russia maintain deep defence ties, with a significant portion of the Indian Air Force’s strike assets of Russian origin. Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to visit India in December, during which both sides are likely to deliberate on expanding military and strategic cooperation.
