India is advancing its plans to procure five more S-400 Triumf air defence systems from Russia, following the submission of a cost proposal by Moscow to initiate negotiations with New Delhi. The decision-making process involves the Cabinet Committee on Security, which will finalize the acquisition once price discussions are settled and the Finance Ministry gives its approval. The current contract, established in 2018 for $5.43 billion, covers five S-400 systems, with the final delivery scheduled for November 2026.
These additional systems are anticipated to significantly bolster India’s air defence capabilities, especially in the eastern sector bordering China. The S-400 systems have already proven their worth, notably during Operation Sindoor in May 2025, where they played a pivotal role in India’s air defence strategy. The performance during this operation has provided a compelling argument for India to expand its fleet of S-400 systems.
While India is moving forward with the S-400 acquisition, the country has yet to make a decision regarding the purchase of Russia’s Su-57 fifth-generation fighter jets. The Indian Air Force has shown interest in this Russian offer, particularly in light of China deploying its J-20 stealth fighters in Tibet. This potential acquisition remains under consideration as India evaluates its strategic defence needs.
The discussions surrounding the S-400 purchase are expected to be part of broader defence talks between India and Russia. Russian President Vladimir Putin’s upcoming visit to India for the BRICS summit in September is likely to feature these defence negotiations prominently, highlighting the ongoing military collaboration between the two nations.