Overview
- Defence sources say talks with Russia are underway to procure a large batch of missiles for the S-400 ‘Sudarshan’ air defence network.
- The Ministry of Defence is expected to table the Indian Air Force proposal at a Defence Acquisition Council meeting on October 23.
- The IAF credits the S-400 with downing five to six Pakistani fighter aircraft and one surveillance plane during Operation Sindoor, calling the system a game-changer.
- India’s 2018 contract for five S-400 squadrons has seen three delivered and operational, with two pending deliveries delayed by Russia’s wartime production priorities.
- Broader discussions include potential additional S-400 units, exploration of S-500 systems, advanced air-to-air missiles, BrahMos upgrades, and agenda-setting ahead of Vladimir Putin’s expected December visit.