According to recent reports from New Delhi, Russia is reportedly close to finalizing the sale of an additional batch of new S-400 air defense systems to the Indian Air Force, in a deal estimated at 100 billion rupees (approximately 1.1 billion U.S. dollars). The proposal is expected to be thoroughly reviewed in the coming days by the Defense Acquisition Council, with the next scheduled meeting likely to take place tomorrow.
Citing statements from officials familiar with the potential sale, the Indian news agency ANI reported: “The Indian Air Force seeks to acquire a significant number of missiles to further strengthen its air defense capabilities. Talks with the Russian side are already underway in this regard.” Although the exact number of systems to be acquired has not been confirmed, it should be noted that India already has a significant precedent, having procured enough S-400 systems to equip five battalions, with a 2018 investment of approximately 5.43 billion U.S. dollars, which are still in the process of being integrated.
Regarding the choice of the S-400 for this acquisition, the Indian Air Force noted that it is not only due to familiarity with these systems but also because of their performance during hostilities with Pakistan in the so-called Operation Sindoor. Specifically, the Air Force indicated that these air defense systems successfully shot down five to six Pakistani combat aircraft, in addition to a C-130 transport aircraft.
It is worth recalling that these air defense systems are among the most capable available, with a detection range of up to 600 kilometers and the ability to engage targets at distances of up to 400 kilometers, supported by a total of 32 missiles from the 48N6 series. Additionally, the S-400 is equipped with an advanced anti-jamming radar capable of simultaneously tracking up to 80 targets during combat operations.
Finally, reports from India indicate that the Air Force may also pursue the acquisition of new batches of air-to-air missiles for its aircraft, while exploring potential Russian assistance to modify BrahMos hypersonic cruise missiles. Analysts have also suggested, albeit as a more distant possibility, that New Delhi could leverage its relationship with the Russian defense industry in the future to acquire S-500 air defense systems to complement its existing air defense network.
Images used for illustrative purposes.
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