India Eyes Additional S-400 Squadrons in Modi-Putin Discussions

NEW DELHI: In a significant move, India is poised to request five additional squadrons of the S-400 Triumf air defence systems during the forthcoming summit between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin scheduled for December 5. This acquisition aims to bolster India's air defence capabilities, particularly following the successful deployment of existing systems during recent military operations.

The proposed acquisition includes a substantial number of surface-to-air missiles intended to enhance the operational readiness of the already deployed S-400 systems, which have demonstrated exceptional effectiveness in combat scenarios. Sources indicate that discussions will revolve around this strategic procurement, alongside the potential acquisition of two to three squadrons of the fifth-generation Sukhoi-57 fighter jet, a topic that remains under careful consideration.

A senior official, speaking under the condition of anonymity, stated, "The Indian Air Force (IAF) is evaluating the induction of additional squadrons of fifth-generation fighters as a temporary solution until the indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) is ready for deployment around 2035. However, no final decisions have been reached regarding the Sukhoi-57, F-35 Lightning-II, or alternative options."

In addition, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), led by Prime Minister Modi, is expected to approve a significant upgrade valued at ₹63,000 crore for the initial batch of 84 Sukhoi-30MKI fighter jets. The IAF currently operates 259 of these Russian-origin aircraft. This upgrade will enhance their capabilities with advanced radar systems, avionics, and extended-range armaments, ensuring their operational viability for another three decades. While the upgrade will be conducted domestically, Russian involvement will also be integrated into the process.

India is currently navigating a complex landscape, balancing its historical reliance on Russian military supplies with an increasing partnership with the United States. This shift is particularly notable under the Trump administration, which has imposed sanctions on nations engaging with Russian defence sectors. Over the past 15 years, the United States has secured contracts worth $26 billion in India, highlighting the growing defence collaboration between the two nations.

Recent agreements include a deal with General Electric for 113 engines to power the Tejas Mark-1A fighter jets, valued at over $1 billion. Additionally, the CCS has approved a ₹7,000 crore support package for the 24 MH-60R Seahawk helicopters being introduced into the Indian Navy, a contract worth ₹15,157 crore.

On the Russian front, Moscow has assured New Delhi that it will deliver the remaining two of the original five S-400 squadrons, ordered for $5.4 billion in 2018, by November 2026. This delivery had faced delays due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

The IAF has also received approval for a ₹10,000 crore procurement of S-400 missiles with varying interception ranges, which are essential for replenishing stocks depleted during recent military engagements with Pakistan. A source confirmed, "While the IAF has formally requested five additional S-400 squadrons, the Defence Ministry has already sanctioned a comprehensive maintenance contract for these systems. Russia will establish a maintenance, repair, and overhaul facility in India to support them."

The IAF Chief, Air Chief Marshal A P Singh, recently referred to the S-400 systems as a "gamechanger" during Operation Sindoor, highlighting their role in neutralising several advanced Pakistani fighter jets at significant distances, further underscoring their strategic importance in India's defence architecture.