**S-400 Missile System Deliveries to India on Track Despite Delays**
Russian Defence Minister Andrey Belousov has confirmed to Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh that the remaining two squadrons of the S-400 missile systems will be delivered by 2026-27, despite delays attributed to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. This assurance came during high-level discussions held on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting in China, where both leaders reaffirmed their enduring defence partnership.
India has already received three of the five units as part of a USD 5.43 billion deal signed in 2018. The S-400 system, known for its capability to detect targets up to 600 km away and intercept them at ranges of up to 400 km, has been pivotal in enhancing India’s air defence strategy, particularly during the military standoff with Pakistan from May 7 to 10 earlier this year.
During the meeting, India also expressed its intention to procure two additional S-400 systems following their successful deployment in Operation Sindoor. The discussions further encompassed the modernization of India’s fleet of approximately 260 Su-30 MKI fighter jets, which are set to undergo significant upgrades to bolster their combat capabilities. Plans for co-production of air-to-air missiles and other essential military hardware were also on the agenda.
In addition to these discussions, Rajnath Singh engaged in separate bilateral meetings with his counterparts from Belarus, Tajikistan, and Kazakhstan, emphasizing India’s commitment to strengthening defence cooperation across the SCO region. He highlighted the progress made in domestic defence production and reiterated the importance of technical collaboration in modern warfare capabilities.
Looking ahead, India is also developing its own air defence system, Project Kusha, with operational deployment anticipated by 2028-2029. The country is actively exploring advancements in defence technologies, including hypersonic missiles and drone warfare capabilities.
In summary, the ongoing collaboration between India and Russia in defence procurement and technology signifies a robust partnership that is set to evolve further in the coming years.
**FAQ**
**Q: What is the S-400 missile system?**
A: The S-400 missile system is a sophisticated air defence system capable of detecting and intercepting aerial threats at significant distances, enhancing a nation’s air defence capabilities.