India in Talks to Buy More S-400 Air Defence Systems, Confirms Russian Envoy

India and Russia are once again strengthening their deep-rooted defence partnership, as talks continue over India’s possible procurement of additional S-400 air defence systems. Russian Ambassador to India, Denis Alipov, recently confirmed that discussions are “ongoing” between the two strategic allies, highlighting the enduring nature of their military cooperation.

In a recent interaction, Ambassador Alipov emphasized the exceptional performance of the S-400 air defence systems and the BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles during India's recent military operations. He pointed to media reports regarding Operation Sindoor, suggesting that both systems played a crucial role in neutralizing threats effectively.

“From what we know, India clearly identified its targets and took action. During the operation, the S-400 system was used, and the BrahMos missiles were deployed. The performance of these weapons was exemplary,” Alipov said, reflecting on India’s swift retaliation against terrorist elements earlier this month.

The S-400, known for its ability to detect and destroy enemy aircraft, cruise missiles, and even ballistic missiles at ranges of up to 400 kilometers, is a cornerstone of India’s growing air defence capability. It gives India the power to secure its skies against multiple aerial threats from various directions simultaneously. India had earlier signed a $5.4 billion deal in 2018 to acquire five regiments of the S-400 system from Russia. Deliveries began in 2021 and are nearing completion.

The Russian envoy’s remarks come at a time when India's defence forces are focusing on enhancing their operational readiness. Following the recent border tensions, there have been strong indications from strategic circles that India might opt for more S-400 units to strengthen its layered air defence shield.

India’s defence partnership with Russia is broad and time-tested. From the licensed production of Su-30 MKI fighter jets and T-90 tanks to the joint development of BrahMos missiles and the production of AK-203 rifles in India, the collaboration spans land, air, and naval domains. Other major defence acquisitions from Russia include the MiG-29 fighters, Kamov helicopters, and the aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya, formerly known as Admiral Gorshkov.

What sets this relationship apart is that it has moved beyond a mere buyer-seller model. India and Russia are now collaborating on joint research, co-development, and production of next-generation defence systems. This reflects a mature and evolving partnership aimed at ensuring long-term strategic autonomy and technology sharing.

While Alipov refrained from confirming specific outcomes of the ongoing S-400 discussions, he reiterated the importance of continuous dialogue in defence matters. “Our discussion on this particular topic, as on many others, is ongoing. It is a continuous one, but it would be incorrect for me and also premature to speak about the results of it at the moment,” he stated.

With the evolving security dynamics in the region and the Indian Armed Forces increasingly relying on advanced technology to maintain a strategic edge, further acquisition of the S-400 systems could be a logical step. These systems not only enhance India's national defence architecture but also reinforce its role as a regional security power.

In the years to come, the India-Russia defence relationship is expected to deepen even further, with more joint projects, innovation, and mutual support that will shape the strategic balance in Asia and beyond.