The Indian Air Force said that Russia will deliver the final two out of the five remaining S-400 air defense missile systems to India by 2025.
The $5.4-billion deal, inked with Moscow in October 2018, initially set the final delivery schedule for 2024, but this was extended to 2026 due to Russia’s conflict with Ukraine.
However, Indian Air Force Commander and Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh has announced an earlier delivery schedule.
“We will be receiving the next two squadrons of S-400 next year. The delivery has been delayed due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict,” Singh said in a recent press conference.
A source told The New Indian Express that Russian defense manufacturers’ prioritization of meeting the demands in the ongoing war against Ukraine contributed to the delay, along with supply chain disruptions, transportation issues, and previously resolved payment concerns.
As the orders come as a missile package, “it won’t be of any use if some parts are successfully delivered, while the rest remain in Russia,” the source added.
Details of the Deal
New Delhi procured five S-400 “Triumf” anti-aircraft missile systems from Moscow in 2018 as part of the country’s defense modernization to boost its national security amid threats of US sanctions.
The first system was delivered in 2021, with the second and third following in 2022 and 2023. These were deployed in key areas to counter potential threats from Pakistan and China and to protect India’s airspace.
S-400 Missile System
Considered one of Russia’s most advanced mobile surface-to-air missile systems, the S-400 can counter a range of threats from distances of up to 400 kilometers (248 miles) and a maximum altitude of 30 kilometers (18.6 miles).
It is equipped with multifunctional radar systems that provide early warning capabilities and can be integrated with other air defense systems.
Designed for rapid response and equipped with various missile variants, the system can simultaneously destroy aerial threats such as drones, aircraft, and ballistic missiles.