India To Begin Receiving More S-400 Missile Systems From Russia Next Year

India is preparing to induct additional units of the Russian-made S-400 Triumf air defence system from next year, defence sources revealed. The move is set to significantly reinforce the country’s ability to neutralise hostile aerial threats.

The S-400 is regarded as one of the world’s most advanced surface-to-air missile platforms, capable of tracking and destroying multiple targets including fighter jets, drones, and ballistic missiles at long ranges.

India had signed a landmark agreement with Russia in 2018 worth over $5 billion for five S-400 regiments. While a number of these systems have already been deployed at key forward locations to safeguard against threats from both Pakistan and China, the pending deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2026.

The system’s arrival is expected to enhance India’s multi-layered air defence network, offering a powerful deterrent at a time of evolving regional security challenges. Despite Western sanctions on Russian defence exports, India has continued to prioritise the completion of the S-400 contract, citing its critical importance for national security.

Once fully operational, the deployment of all five regiments will provide India with a comprehensive air defence umbrella, giving the Indian Air Force (IAF) a decisive technological edge in protecting its skies.