India is advancing its plans to acquire 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 ultimate decision on the purchase is anticipated to be made by the Cabinet Committee on Security once the price negotiations are concluded and clearance is obtained from the Finance Ministry. The country’s initial agreement for five S-400 systems, secured in 2018 at a cost of $5.43 billion, is on track to be fulfilled with the final system expected to be delivered by November 2026.
The addition of the proposed systems aims to bolster India’s air defence capabilities, particularly in the eastern sector facing China. The S-400 systems proved crucial during India’s Operation Sindoor in May 2025, and their performance has fueled the argument for expanding India’s fleet of these air defence systems. This move reflects India’s strategic focus on enhancing its defence infrastructure amid regional security challenges.
While India is progressing with the S-400 acquisition, it remains undecided on purchasing Russia’s Su-57 fifth-generation fighter aircraft, despite an interest shown by the Indian Air Force. This interest has been piqued in light of China’s deployment of J-20 stealth fighters in Tibet, which underscores the ongoing strategic considerations in the region. The potential acquisition of the Su-57 is a subject of interest but has not yet reached a decision point.
The discussion around the S-400 systems is expected to be a significant aspect of broader India-Russia defence dialogues. These discussions are likely to gain momentum with the upcoming visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin to India for the BRICS summit scheduled in September. The summit provides a platform for the two nations to discuss and potentially advance their defence cooperation further.