Amid ongoing delays attributed to the military conflict between Russia and Ukraine, India has been informed by Russia that the remaining two squadrons of the S-400 long-range air defence missile system will be supplied by August 2026.
A deal was signed between Russia and India for the procurement of five squadrons of the S-400 air defence system, of which three have already been delivered. However, due to the evolving situation arising from the Russia-Ukraine war, the delivery of the remaining two squadrons has been postponed.
Defence sources have revealed that the Russian side has communicated their revised timeline, stating that the highly capable air defence systems will now be supplied by August 2026. The S-400 air defence system boasts the capability to engage targets at a range of 400 kilometres and is particularly effective against fighter jets and cruise missiles.
Originally, Russia was expected to complete the delivery of all systems by 2024. However, adjustments had to be made due to the country’s priorities in the ongoing conflict. The deal between India and Russia for the procurement of five squadrons of S-400 air defence missiles amounts to over Rs 35,000 crore, with the deliveries initially anticipated to conclude by the end of 2023-24.
However, there is now a possibility of a delay in meeting this timeframe. Notwithstanding the delay, the Indian Air Force, having recently received indigenous MR-SAM, Akash missile systems, and Israeli Spyder quick-reaction surface-to-air missile systems, views the S-400 as a pivotal asset that will significantly enhance its air defence capabilities.
Moreover, the Indian Air Force has initiated Project ‘Kusha’, aimed at developing an indigenous system by DRDO to neutralize enemy platforms at extended ranges. Meanwhile, both India and China have deployed air defence systems extensively along the Line of Actual Control, reflecting the importance attached to aerial defence in the region.
