Russia Submits Proposal to India for Five More S-400 Squadrons

NEW DELHI: In a major development aimed at strengthening India's layered air defence network, Russia has submitted a detailed proposal to the Ministry of Defence for the supply of five additional squadrons of the S-400 Triumf long-range air defence system, referred to domestically as the Sudarshan system.

Defence sources cited in recent reports said the project is estimated to cost more than Rs 50,000 crore. The Russian response follows India's earlier clearance to pursue the acquisition of five additional S-400 squadrons to strengthen air defence coverage along the eastern and western fronts.

Under the initial 2018 contract for five squadrons, India has already received four S-400 units. The fifth and final squadron under that agreement is expected to be delivered by November 2026, according to defence sources.

Deliveries under the proposed new procurement are likely to begin approximately three years after the signing of a formal contract. India is also pursuing the acquisition of more than 280 additional interceptor missiles to strengthen the existing S-400 missile inventory.

The proposed procurement has gained further attention following the S-400's reported role during Operation Sindoor. Defence officials have highlighted the system's role in India's integrated air defence network during the operation.

Western Air Command chief Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra had said that an S-400 system engaged a Pakistani surveillance aircraft at a range of around 314 kilometres. He also spoke about engagements involving Pakistani fighter aircraft. These operational claims have been attributed to Indian defence officials.

The Russian proposal is currently being processed by the Ministry of Defence. Any final procurement will remain subject to the government's established defence acquisition and approval procedures.

The proposed purchase will also run alongside India's indigenous air-defence development efforts, including the DRDO's Project Kusha long-range air defence programme. India is simultaneously working towards expanding its integrated air defence capabilities under the broader Mission Sudarshan Chakra framework.

The proposed five additional S-400 squadrons would, if approved and contracted, further expand India's existing long-range air defence capability and strengthen coverage along the country's eastern and western fronts.

Source Attribution: Rediff News/ANI

Editorial Note: The estimated project cost, delivery timeline and operational details are based on reports citing defence sources and officials. Final financial terms, delivery schedules and procurement arrangements will depend on the completion of the government procurement process and any eventual contract.