New DelhiIn a significant development, India will reportedly begin the purchase of 300 Russian missiles to replenish its S-400 air defence systems and also seek five S-400 squadrons.
In order to strengthen its S-400 air defense systems, which were employed during Operation Sindoor, India is anticipated to submit a request for proposals (RFP) to Russia for the purchase of 300 Russian missiles. New Delhi is also seeking five S-400 squadrons at the upcoming meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin on December 5.
According to a Times of India report, India may consider purchasing two to three squadrons of Russia’s fifth-generation Sukhoi-57 fighter jets, which Moscow is actively promoting as an alternative to the American F-35 Lightning II, top sources told TOI on Tuesday.
As a temporary solution until the domestic stealth AMCA (advanced medium combat aircraft) is prepared for induction by 2035 or so, there is a case for the IAF to induct two to three squadrons of fifth-generation fighters. However, no decision has been made regarding the Sukhoi-57, F-35, or any other option, according to a source cited by the English Daily.
While India is considering the purchase of additional S-400 air defence systems from Moscow, the armed forces are also evaluating the Russian Pantsir missile system to counter armed and kamikaze drones.
What is S-400 Sudarshan Chakra?The Russian-made S-400 Triumf air defense missile system, one of the most sophisticated long-range surface-to-air missile systems in the world, is known in India as the "Sudarshan Chakra" S-400.
Inspired by Lord Vishnu's fabled weapon from the Mahabharata, this name denotes lethal accuracy, speed, and precision, reflecting the S-400's practical capabilities.
Designed by Russia's Almaz-Antey, the S-400 can engage aerial threats, including aircraft, drones, and ballistic missiles, at ranges up to 400 km and detect targets as far as 600 km.