India is reportedly gearing up to place a massive order for five additional S-400 air defence squadrons, a deal valued at around Rs 56,000 crore. This strategic procurement is expected to be a major agenda item when Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets Russian President Vladimir Putin in New Delhi on December 5. The move signifies India’s commitment to strengthening its air defence shield against increasingly complex aerial challenges. The S-400 system has demonstrated its formidable capabilities, notably during recent military operations, showcasing its ability to neutralize threats at extended ranges. This expansion, if approved, will bring India’s total S-400 squadrons to ten, significantly enhancing its long-range air defence capabilities. Alongside the system acquisition, discussions are also likely to cover the procurement of supporting missile stocks and potentially a local maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility, demonstrating a robust and evolving defence partnership aimed at safeguarding national airspace.
