Russia submits proposal in response to India’s tender for five additional S-400 ‘Sudarshan’ long-range air defence systems
— Global Journal | New Delhi | August 30
Russia has submitted a detailed proposal in response to India’s tender for five additional S-400 ‘Sudarshan’ long-range air defence squadrons for the Indian Air Force. The proposed defence deal is estimated to be worth more than ₹50,000 crore, according to a report by ANI.
Defence sources told ANI that the Russian proposal has been received by the Indian authorities and is currently under review. If approved, the additional S-400 squadrons are expected to further strengthen India’s layered air defence capabilities.
India Set to Expand Its S-400 Fleet
Under a 2018 agreement with Russia, India ordered five S-400 squadrons. Four of those squadrons have already been delivered to the Indian Air Force, while the fifth and final squadron is expected to be delivered by November this year, according to defence sources.
If the new five-squadron contract is finalised, deliveries are expected to begin around three years after the agreement is signed.
The additional systems are expected to strengthen India’s air defence network, particularly along its eastern and western fronts.
S-400 Gains Prominence After Operation Sindoor
The S-400 gained renewed attention following Operation Sindoor, when the system was deployed as part of India’s air defence network during military tensions with Pakistan.
According to Indian claims cited in the reports, the S-400 played a significant role in countering aerial threats during the operation. India is also reportedly in the process of acquiring more than 280 additional missiles for its S-400 systems to strengthen its missile inventory.
India Developing Indigenous ‘Project Kusha’
Alongside expanding its S-400 fleet, India is developing an indigenous long-range air defence system under Project Kusha as part of its effort to reduce long-term dependence on foreign defence platforms.
According to reports, Project Kusha recently achieved an initial milestone by successfully engaging a simulated target at a range of around 140 kilometres.
The expansion of the S-400 fleet, together with the development of Project Kusha, is expected to contribute to India’s long-term plans for building a stronger and more comprehensive multi-layered air defence network.
However, the new five-squadron S-400 deal has not yet been finalised. Russia’s proposal is currently being processed and evaluated by Indian authorities.
— Global Journal | New Delhi | August 30
Source: ANI
