India and Russia are in advanced discussions for a fresh procurement of five additional S-400 Triumf air defence regiments, potentially doubling India’s fleet to a total of ten systems, ThePrint has reported.
The new acquisition could be executed either through a direct purchase — similar to the existing $5 billion deal signed in 2018 — or under the Make in India manufacturing framework. Two of the five previously ordered S-400 units are still awaiting delivery.
Sources indicate the S-400 demonstrated exceptional operational capability during Operation Sindoor, where it effectively deterred Pakistani aircraft — including J-10 fighters — and achieved its longest-range engagement to date. The system’s “shoot-and-scoot” mobility, allowing it to evade counter-fire quickly, was also proven in live operations.
The subject is expected to be part of the agenda when Russian President Vladimir Putin meets Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to India on 5 December.
Interest in S-500, but No Immediate Plans
While India has shown interest in Russia’s next-generation S-500 air defence system, sources say it is still under phased induction with Russian forces and not being pursued for acquisition at present.
Su-57: No Deal in Sight
On the much-speculated Su-57 fifth-generation fighter jet, sources clarified that:
- India is assessing global options, including South Korean and European programs.
- The only fully operational 5th-gen fighter available today is the US F-35 — which has not been formally offered or denied to India.
- India’s indigenous AMCA program remains the long-term solution, with first flight expected in 2032 and induction by 2035.
Though Russia previously proposed Su-57 manufacturing in India, no firm discussions or agreements are expected during Putin’s visit.
The Su-57’s appeal lies in its:
- Long-range strike capability
- Large internal weapons bay
- Advanced BVR missiles like R-37M (300+ km range)
- Hypersonic Kinzhal missile compatibility
However, India currently lacks an aircraft platform capable of firing the Kinzhal, ruling out that possibility for now.
Su-30MKI Upgrade Plan Continues
India and Russia remain engaged in technical discussions to modernize the IAF’s Su-30MKI fleet — focusing on avionics, sensors, and updated weapon systems including integration of the R-37M missile.
The negotiations mark India’s continued push to strengthen air defence and air-combat capabilities while developing its own future fighter ecosystem.
By
