PM Modi and Putin

India’s air defense power may become stronger in the coming days. According to sources, Russia has indicated that it is ready to provide two to three additional S-400 to the Indian Air Force. This offer has come at a time when in Operation Sindoor (May 2025), the Indian S-400 system demonstrated its capability brilliantly by intercepting Pakistan’s fighter planes and missiles.

According to sources, Russian government firm Rostec has clearly indicated that initial talks on a new deal with India have started. Russia It claims that this time the delivery will be on time and as per the fixed schedule, so that the problem of previous delay does not recur.

Two regiments of the old deal still remain

India had signed a contract to buy a total of five S-400 regiments in 2018 for about $5.43 billion.

• The first three regiments have been delivered to the Indian Air Force by 2023.
• The fourth and fifth regiments were stuck due to the Ukraine war and their delivery has now been pushed to early and mid-2026.
• For this reason, India has clearly told Russia that the new deal will be finalized only when the delivery timeline is completely assured.

S-400 becomes Sudarshan Chakra of India’s air defense

The S-400 is symbolically called “Sudarshan Chakra” in the Indian Air Force. Deployed on both the fronts of China and Pakistan, this system has become the main pillar of India’s multi-layer air defense.

Its capability highlighted globally in Operation Sindoor

• The unit deployed from Adampur has created a record by shooting down a Pakistani aircraft 314 km away.
• IAF Chief confirms S-400 destroys six Pakistani JF-17 fighters and one ISR aircraft at 300 km+ range
• Its Big Bird radar tracked 300+ air targets simultaneously
• System deployment time was less than 5 minutes
• These figures proved that the S-400 is the backbone of India’s air defense network.

Make in India flavor in new deal

A major focus in the talks is that Russia is ready to provide 50% transfer of technology (ToT) for S-400 missiles.

• Indian companies like BDL will be involved in missile assembly.
• Local production of 48N6 missile, approved in October 2025, will also get a boost.
• Up to 50% indigenization will be possible in S-400 support system.
• Costs will reduce and India’s external dependence will reduce.
• This is being considered a big step towards strengthening India’s defense self-reliance.

When can the deal be finalized?

• Negotiations are expected to be completed by mid-2026
• Delivery of new regiment likely to begin between 2029–2030
• Estimated cost $23 billion

The success of Operation Sindoor has not only proved the capability of the S-400 but also opened a new strategic chapter in India-Russia defense cooperation. If the new deal is confirmed, India’s air security will be strengthened and its ability to prevent any air threat from neighboring countries will increase manifold.