Russia has promised to deliver the remaining two squadrons of the S-400 air defense system to India by 2026-27. Three squadrons have been received so far. This system is strategically important against Pakistan and China.
S-400 System: The S-400 air defense system played a decisive role in "Operation Sindoor," launched by India after the recent terror attack in Pahalgam. During this operation, the S-400 neutralized potential aerial threats from Pakistan in a timely manner. Due to this, the importance of this advanced system is once again in the spotlight.
Remaining Squadrons to be Received by 2026-27
On June 26, 2025, Russia assured India that it would complete the delivery of the remaining two squadrons of the S-400 air defense system by 2026 and 2027. This issue was raised prominently during the meeting of defense ministers of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) between Russian Deputy Defense Minister Andrey Belousov and India's Defense Minister Rajnath Singh.
India has received three squadrons
In 2018, a deal worth ₹40,000 crore was signed between India and Russia, in which India was to receive a total of five S-400 squadrons. According to the plan, their delivery was to be completed by the end of 2023. However, this was delayed due to the Russia-Ukraine war. Three squadrons have been delivered to India so far, which the Indian Air Force has deployed in strategically important areas.
Strengthening India-Russia Defense Relations
After this meeting, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh wrote on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), "Fruitful discussions were held to further strengthen India-Russia defense cooperation." According to sources, the fourth squadron will be delivered to India by next year, i.e., 2026, and the fifth squadron by 2027.
What are the technical features of the S-400?
The S-400 Triumf air defense system is Russia's most advanced multi-layer anti-aircraft missile system. Each squadron has two firing units, and each unit has four launchers. A squadron has a total of 128 missiles. Its range is from 120 km to 400 km. This system is capable of tracking and destroying cruise missiles, ballistic missiles, and fighter jets.
It has a long-range radar system that can track more than 100 targets simultaneously. In addition, this system is deployed with transport and launcher vehicles that can operate in all weather conditions.
Where are the S-400s deployed in India?
The Indian Air Force has deployed the first three S-400 squadrons in areas bordering China and Pakistan. One squadron is deployed in Punjab, one in Uttarakhand or a part of the Northeast, and one near the Ladakh region. This has significantly strengthened India's air defense, and any aerial attack by enemy countries can be thwarted in advance.
Strong message to Pakistan and China from the S-400
The S-400 played a crucial role in the way India executed Operation Sindoor after the Pahalgam attack. It eliminated every possibility of aerial intrusion from Pakistan. It also made it clear that India would not only respond to terrorist incidents but is also strategically fully prepared.
What is the reason for the delay in the delivery of the S-400?
The Russia-Ukraine war has significantly impacted Russia's military supply system. Due to the war, Russia had to prioritize its domestic military needs. This affected the delivery of defense equipment to India and other countries. However, the strategic partnership between India and Russia remained b, and as a result, a new timeline for delivery has been set.
