India to receive final S-400 missile system from Russia by 2026, strengthening air defence and completing a $5.43B strategic deal amid evolving regional threats (photo credit-missilethreat.csis.org)
India is preparing to receive the final piece of one of its most powerful air defence systems—the Russian-made S-400 Triumf. This delivery, expected in 2026, marks the completion of a $5.43 billion deal signed in 2018. With four systems already deployed across strategic locations, the fifth and final unit will further strengthen India’s ability to detect, track, and destroy aerial threats. In this blog, we break down the deal, its importance, and what it means for India’s defence future.
What Is the S-400 Missile System and Why Does It Matter?
The S-400 Triumf is one of the most advanced surface-to-air missile systems in the world. Developed by Russia, it can detect and destroy enemy aircraft, drones, and even ballistic missiles from long distances.
Key Features of the S-400:
- Range: Can intercept targets up to 380 km away.
- Tracking Capability: Detects threats as far as 600 km.
- Multi-targeting: Can engage up to 80 targets simultaneously.
- Speed: Missiles travel at over 15 Mach (15 times the speed of sound).
- Layered Defence: Works with other systems to create a multi-layered shield.
India chose the S-400 to protect its skies from threats posed by neighboring countries like China and Pakistan. The system is especially useful in mountainous regions and border zones where radar coverage is difficult.
The S-400 is not just a missile launcher, it’s a complete air defence ecosystem. It includes:
- Long-range radar
- Command and control centers
- Missile launchers
- Mobile units for fast deployment
This makes it ideal for India’s diverse terrain and evolving security needs.
The India-Russia Defence Deal: A Strategic Partnership
India signed the S-400 deal with Russia in October 2018, despite warnings from the United States. The deal was worth $5.43 billion (around ₹40,000 crore) and included five full S-400 units.
Timeline of Deliveries:
| Year | Delivery Status |
| 2021 | First unit delivered |
| 2022 | Second unit deployed |
| 2023 | Third unit operational |
| 2024 | Fourth unit received |
| 2026 | Final unit expected |
The deliveries faced delays due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, which disrupted global supply chains. However, Russia has confirmed that the final system will arrive in 2026.
India’s decision to go ahead with the deal, even under pressure from the US, shows its commitment to strategic autonomy. The US had warned that buying Russian weapons could trigger sanctions under the CAATSA (Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act). But so far, no sanctions have been imposed.
This deal is part of a long-standing defence partnership between India and Russia. Other joint projects include:
- BrahMos missile system
- Su-30 MKI fighter jets
- T-90 tanks
- INS Vikramaditya aircraft carrier
Russia remains India’s largest arms supplier, accounting for 36% of imports between 2020 and 2024.
How the S-400 Strengthened India’s Defence in Real Operations
India didn’t just buy the S-400 for show, it has already used it in real military operations. During Operation Sindoor in May 2025, India launched strikes against terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The S-400 played a key role in intercepting incoming missiles and protecting Indian territory.
Operation Sindoor Highlights:
- Launched on May 7, 2025
- Targeted terror camps after the April 22 Pahalgam attack
- Lasted four days with intense drone and missile exchanges
- Ceasefire reached on May 10
Defence experts praised the S-400’s performance during the operation. It helped India maintain air superiority and avoid civilian casualties. Minister of State Sanjay Seth, who represented India at Moscow’s V-Day parade, confirmed the system’s effectiveness and hinted at interest in buying more units.
India has deployed the S-400 in key sectors:
- Northwest: To counter threats from Pakistan
- Eastern sector: To monitor Chinese air activity
- Central command: For strategic depth and backup
Each S-400 squadron includes two missile batteries, mobile radar units, and command vehicles. These are integrated with India’s existing air defence systems like Akash and Spyder.
What’s Next? India Eyes the Future with S-500 and Indigenous Systems
With the final S-400 delivery in sight, India is already looking ahead. Discussions are underway to acquire Russia’s next-generation S-500 Prometey missile systems. These are even more advanced and can intercept hypersonic missiles and satellites.
S-500 vs S-400:
| Feature | S-400 | S-500 |
| Max Range | 380 km | 600 km |
| Target Types | Aircraft, missiles | Hypersonic, satellites |
| Radar | Long-range | Ultra-long-range |
| Deployment | Mobile | Mobile & fixed |
India is also working on its own air defence program called Project Kusha, expected to be ready by 2028-29. This will include:
- Indigenous missile systems
- AI-powered radar tracking
- Drone interception technology
The goal is to reduce dependence on foreign suppliers and build a self-reliant defence ecosystem. But until then, systems like the S-400 will remain critical.
India’s interest in co-producing Russian fighter jets like the Su-57 and upgrading its Su-30 MKI fleet shows a broader strategy: combine foreign tech with domestic innovation.
A Game-Changer for India’s Defence Strategy
The S-400 missile system marks a turning point in India’s defence preparedness. With the final unit set to arrive from Russia in 2026, India will complete one of its most strategic military acquisitions. This multi-layered air defence shield enhances India’s ability to detect, track, and neutralize aerial threats from long distances, whether from hostile aircraft, drones, or ballistic missiles.
More than just a technological upgrade, the S-400 represents India’s commitment to strategic autonomy. Despite global pressure, especially from the United States under CAATSA, India prioritized national security over diplomatic friction. The system has already proven its worth during Operation Sindoor, where it played a critical role in intercepting incoming threats and maintaining air superiority.
Looking ahead, India is not stopping with the S-400. Discussions around acquiring the next-gen S-500 and developing indigenous systems under Project Kusha show a clear roadmap toward self-reliance and future-ready defence. The integration of these systems will not only modernize India’s military but also reshape its geopolitical posture.
In essence, the S-400 is more than a missile system, it’s a symbol of India’s evolving defence doctrine, one that blends global partnerships with homegrown innovation to secure its skies and strategic interests.
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