Russia amid negotiations of giving air missile systems to India

(MENAFN) Moscow and New Delhi are in discussions regarding the provision of additional S-400 surface-to-air missile systems to India, according to reports citing a senior Russian defense official. India has already received three of the five S-400 systems it purchased from Russia in 2018 for $5.43 billion, with the remaining two expected to be delivered in 2026.

“As is known, India has our S-400 system,” Dmitry Shugayev, head of the Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation, stated. “There is an opportunity to expand cooperation in this sector as well. It means new supplies. So far, we are negotiating this.”

The S-400 systems proved crucial in defending India’s air bases and other military sites against retaliatory strikes from Pakistan during a four-day confrontation between the neighboring nations in May. “Platforms like the S-400 have given unprecedented strength to the country,” Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in an address to soldiers shortly after the conflict ended.

Shugayev also noted that another potential area of defense collaboration involves the supply of Sukhoi Su-57 jets. India is seeking at least two squadrons of fifth-generation fighter aircraft, with the Russian Su-57 competing alongside other options. Reports indicate that Moscow is considering investment plans to produce Su-57 jets in India, with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, which currently manufactures Su-30 MKI aircraft, as a potential production hub.

India’s military remains heavily reliant on Russian-made equipment, with approximately 60% of its arsenal sourced from Russia. As New Delhi advances plans for local arms and ammunition production, Russian manufacturers are exploring opportunities for expanded joint production in the country.

MENAFN03092025000045017281ID1110010592