After Operation Sindoor Success, India Moves for 5 More S-400s as Russia Shares Cost Proposal

India’s plan to procure five additional S-400 Triumf air defence systems from Russia has moved closer to the negotiation stage, with Moscow submitting a Bill of Quantities (BOQ) proposal to New Delhi.

The proposal outlines the projected costs of construction and materials and is expected to form the basis for further price discussions. India had signed a $5.43-billion contract in 2018 for five S-400 systems. The fifth and final system under that deal is expected to arrive in India in November this year.

No Final Call on Su-57 Fighters

Despite reports suggesting otherwise, India has not taken a final decision to purchase two squadrons of Russia’s fifth-generation Su-57 fighter jets.

The Indian Air Force, however, has shown interest in the Russian offer as China continues to strengthen its air power along the India-facing Tibetan region. Chinese J-20 stealth fighters have reportedly been deployed at bases including Hotan, Lhasa and Nyingchi under the People’s Liberation Army’s Western Theatre Command.

New S-400s to Strengthen Eastern Front

The proposed acquisition of five more S-400 squadrons will require approval from the Cabinet Committee on Security. The proposal is expected to move forward after India and Russia settle the financial terms and the Finance Ministry gives its clearance.

One of the new S-400 systems is expected to be positioned in India’s eastern sector, adding another layer to the country’s air defence capability along the China border.

S-400 Featured in Operation Sindoor

The S-400 emerged as a key component of India’s air defence during Operation Sindoor in May 2025. According to the report, an S-400 interceptor engaged a Pakistani airborne early warning aircraft at a distance of around 314 kilometres.

Pakistan also reportedly attempted to target S-400 batteries at Adampur and Bhuj using kamikaze drones. The Russian-origin air defence system, along with other Indian platforms, helped maintain a strong defensive shield against Pakistani aerial threats.

The report further claimed that Pakistan shifted several air assets towards bases near the Afghanistan border after Indian strikes hit multiple Pakistani military airfields.

Russia Defence Partnership in Focus

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s expected visit to New Delhi for the BRICS summit from September 11 to 13 could provide another opportunity to deepen India-Russia defence cooperation.

Beyond the S-400 and fighter aircraft discussions, the two countries are also expected to focus on advanced defence technologies, including cooperation in the hypersonic missile domain.