India in Talks for 5 More Russian S-400 Systems

Despite Western sanctions and US warnings, India continues to strengthen its strategic partnership with Russia in the military-technical sphere. According to the Indian newspaper Hindustan Times, New Delhi is exploring the possibility of purchasing an additional five units of the S-400 "Triumf" anti-aircraft missile systems from Russia.

This week, a meeting is planned between representatives of the defense ministries of India and Russia, during which possible options for the deal will be discussed: direct purchase or the organization of joint production. These negotiations precede Russian President Vladimir Putin's planned visit to India on December 5, which may indicate the parties' intention to bring the deal to a final stage before the high-level meeting.

It is worth noting that this is not the first S-400 deal between India and Russia. In October 2018, the parties signed a $5.43 billion contract for the supply of five S-400 units. Three of those systems have already been delivered, and the delivery of the remaining two is expected by the end of 2026.

The need for a new deal, according to the Indian side, is driven by the further strengthening of the country's air defense capabilities. Specifically, the plan is to enhance the defense along India's coastline of more than 7,000 km and to close air defense gaps in the country's northern command zone.

Several scenarios are being discussed during the negotiations. According to one of them, three of the five systems will be purchased directly, while the other two will be produced in India through technology transfer, involving local private companies.