Defence sources said discussions with Russia are underway to acquire these missiles in substantial numbers
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VITALY NEVAR
The Ministry of Defence is expected to consider a proposal from the Indian Air Force (IAF) to procure missiles worth around Rs 10,000 crore for its S-400 ‘Sudarshan chakra’ air defence systems at an upcoming Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) meeting scheduled for October 23, defence sources said.
This procurement aims to significantly bolster India’s air defence capabilities following the S-400’s successful operational deployment during Operation Sindoor. In that four-day conflict, the S-400 reportedly brought down five to six Pakistani fighter aircraft and a surveillance drone at ranges exceeding 300 km inside Pakistani territory.
Defence sources said discussions with Russia are underway to acquire these missiles in substantial numbers, strengthening India’s layered air defence shield.
India had signed a deal with Russia in 2018 to purchase five squadrons of the S-400 system. Three of these have already been delivered and are fully operational. However, the delivery of the remaining two squadrons was delayed due to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
India is now pressing for the delivery of the final two squadrons and is also exploring the possibility of acquiring additional S-400 units as well as next-generation S-500 systems, sources said.
In addition to the S-400 missile purchase, the Indian side is also in talks with Russia to procure advanced air-to-air missiles to enhance its beyond visual range (BVR) combat capabilities.
Ongoing discussions between the two countries also include upgrades to the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile and its variants, reflecting the broader strategic defence partnership between New Delhi and Moscow.
Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to visit India in December, during which defence cooperation is likely to be a key focus of bilateral talks.
Published on October 21, 2025