Russia has formally submitted its detailed proposal for India’s massive ₹50,000‑crore acquisition of five additional S‑400 Sudarshan long‑range air defence squadrons, marking a major step forward in one of India’s most significant defence procurements. According to reports, the Russian response to India’s tender has been received and is now being processed by the Ministry of Defence.
India cleared the proposal in March, shortly after Operation Sindoor, during which the Russian‑made S‑400 system reportedly proved highly effective against Pakistani aerial threats. The performance of the system during the operation is understood to have strengthened India’s resolve to expand its S‑400 fleet.
India already operates four S‑400 squadrons, delivered under a 2018 agreement with Russia for five units. The fifth and final squadron from that original contract is expected to arrive by November this year, according to defence sources. If the new deal is finalised, deliveries of the additional five squadrons are likely to begin around three years after the agreement is signed.
The S‑400’s role during Operation Sindoor gave it renewed prominence. The system was deployed as part of India’s air‑defence network amid heightened Pakistani aerial activity, reinforcing its value in India’s strategic posture.