India Requests Russia to Speed Up S-400 Missile Deliveries

New Delhi, India – Amid growing close ties between India and Russia, New Delhi has asked Moscow to expedite the deliveries of the S-400 air defense missile system. Russia has promised to deliver the fourth and fifth squadrons by March 2026 and October 2026, respectively, despite delays caused by their ongoing conflict with Ukraine.

India and Russia signed a contract in 2019 for five squadrons of the S-400 system, which can hit targets up to 400 kilometers away. India has already received three squadrons, which are operational and deployed along the China and Pakistan borders.

Defense officials stated, “India has requested the Russian side during recent talks to expedite the deliveries for meeting Indian Air Force requirements and try to advance the deliveries.” The Russian side has assured to look into the request.

The Indian Air Force, which recently received the indigenous MR-SAM and Akash missile systems as well as the Israeli Spyder quick reaction surface-to-air missile systems, believes the S-400 will be a game-changer. The Air Force has also started working on Project ‘Kusha’ to develop an indigenous system for long-range defense.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently visited Moscow and met with President Vladimir Putin. Both countries have decided to enhance their military joint ventures in production and maintenance of various weapon systems.