India and Russia are once again strengthening their defence partnership, with Moscow confirming that talks are underway for additional deliveries of S-400 missile systems. The announcement was made by Dmitry Shugayev, head of Russia’s Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation, who said India already operates the advanced missile defence system and discussions are ongoing for future supplies.

Background: India’s 2018 S-400 Deal

India had signed a $5.5 billion deal with Russia in 2018 to acquire five S-400 Triumf surface-to-air missile systems, considered among the most advanced in the world. These systems are capable of engaging a wide range of aerial threats, including aircraft, drones, and ballistic missiles, at ranges of up to 400 km.

However, the deliveries faced repeated delays due to logistical challenges, COVID-19 disruptions, and geopolitical factors, with the final two systems now expected only in 2026 and 2027. Despite these hurdles, India has already operationalized part of the order, enhancing its air defence capability along sensitive borders.

The new discussions suggest that India may be looking to expand its S-400 fleet beyond the original five units, particularly given rising regional security challenges and its ongoing tensions with both Pakistan and China.

Russia Appreciates India’s Defiance of U.S. Pressure

The talks come amid wider India-Russia political and economic cooperation, highlighted during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Tianjin. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that Moscow deeply “appreciated” India’s refusal to bow to U.S. demands to cut down on purchases of Russian energy and defence equipment.

This position has become even more relevant after the United States doubled tariffs on Indian goods, imposing an additional 25 per cent penalty linked to India’s continued purchase of Russian crude oil.

Russia: Still India’s Biggest Defence Supplier

Despite India’s growing defence procurement from France, Israel, and the U.S., Russia remains its top arms supplier. According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), 36 per cent of India’s weapons imports between 2020 and 2024 came from Russia.

The Indo-Russian defence collaboration spans decades and includes:

• Licensed production of T-90 tanks and Su-30MKI fighter jets in India.

• Supply of MiG-29 fighters, Kamov helicopters, and the aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya (formerly Admiral Gorshkov).

• BrahMos supersonic missile programme, one of the world’s fastest cruise missiles.

• Production of AK-203 assault rifles in India.

The S-400 system has also been tested in combat-like scenarios. During Operation Sindoor, India credited the system with intercepting and destroying incoming missiles from across the border.

Modi and Putin’s Strong Strategic Messaging

At the SCO summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin reaffirmed their “Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.” Modi emphasized that India and Russia have always stood shoulder-to-shoulder even in the most difficult times, a statement widely interpreted as a message of defiance against Western pressure.

The two leaders held both formal talks and an informal interaction, riding together in the same car for nearly an hour. Discussions reportedly focused on economic, financial, and energy cooperation, in addition to defence.

In his remarks, PM Modi invited Putin to visit India in December 2025, telling him that “140 crore Indians are eagerly waiting to welcome you.” He also stressed that closer India-Russia cooperation contributes not only to the welfare of both countries but also to global peace, stability, and prosperity.

Ukraine Peace and India’s Neutral Position

On the issue of Ukraine, Modi reiterated India’s position of neutrality, stating that “humanity’s call is to find a way to end hostilities as soon as possible.” India has repeatedly called for dialogue and diplomacy, avoiding taking sides in the conflict while continuing energy and defence ties with Russia.

Conclusion

The latest India-Russia talks on S-400 missile systems underscore the enduring depth of their strategic partnership. Despite the rise of alternative suppliers and Western pressure, Russia remains central to India’s defence modernization.

As geopolitical tensions rise in Europe and Asia, India’s reliance on Russian defence technology highlights its strategy of maintaining strategic autonomy. For Moscow, the deal is equally vital—cementing its role as India’s foremost defence partner at a time when Russia faces increasing isolation from the West.

With Putin’s expected visit to India in December, and discussions around expanding the S-400 supply line, the coming months may mark a new chapter in Indo-Russian defence cooperation, reinforcing an alliance that has stood the test of decades.

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