New Delhi . Preparations are underway to further strengthen the ongoing deal between India and Russia regarding S-400. For this, work is going on to purchase a big arms package worth about Rs 10,000 crore. Defense Ministry sources say that this step is being taken with the aim of further strengthening the air defense capability. Talks are going on with Russia in this regard.
Military sources have claimed that during the India-Pakistan conflict, the S-400 system of the Indian Air Force played an important role in defeating Pakistan. During the same period, Pakistan got help in shooting down 5-6 fighter planes and one spy plane at a distance of more than 300 km. Officials have described the S-400 as a game changer in India’s air defense strategy.
The Defense Ministry will soon be likely to present this purchase proposal in the Defense Acquisition Council (DAC) meeting for approval, the next meeting of which is proposed on October 23. Sources say that keeping in mind the needs, there is a plan to purchase missiles in large numbers.
Under the agreement signed with Russia in 2018, it was agreed to receive a total of 5 squadrons of S-400, of which three squadrons have now been delivered and operational. Delivery of the fourth squadron was slowed by the effects of the Russia–Ukraine War. Discussions are also ongoing between the two sides on the further induction of S-400 and advanced S-500 systems.
Along with this, the Indian Air Force is also examining options for purchasing Russian-made Beyond-Visual-Range (BVR) air-to-air missiles and further strengthening the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile and its various variants. According to defense experts, these steps will make India stronger.
The Defense Ministry has not yet officially confirmed any procurement contract; However, both sides are active in negotiations and on necessary technical and financial aspects. Defense sector experts believe that in view of the changing threats and technological dynamics on the borders, expansion of the country’s air defense systems remains necessary.
