India is set to receive its fourth S-400 air defence system from Russia by mid-May, according to a Hindustan Times report, which cited authoritative sources.
The system, shipped last week after pre-dispatch inspection by Indian Air Force (IAF) officials, is expected to be deployed in the Rajasthan sector to strengthen India’s missile defence posture against Pakistan.
The report noted that the delivery comes on the eve of the anniversary of Operation Sindoor, during which the S-400 system was actively used.
The fifth and final system under the existing contract is expected to be shipped in November this year.
According to the report, the system demonstrated significant operational capability during the conflict, with India reportedly firing 11 long-range S-400 missiles that neutralised multiple aerial threats, including fighter jets, airborne early warning systems and transport aircraft.
The report further stated that the Indian government has already approved the acquisition of five additional S-400 systems.
These systems are capable of targeting aerial threats up to a range of 400 kilometres, including areas east of the Indus in Pakistan.
In parallel, India is planning to procure 280 short- and long-range missiles to replenish stocks used during Operation Sindoor and to build a reserve inventory.
In addition to expanding its S-400 fleet, India is also exploring the establishment of a maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facility through private sector participation, with the possibility of transfer of technology under consideration.
The report added that India is planning to procure at least 12 Pantsir air defence systems from Russia through a government-to-government deal, while another 40 systems could be produced domestically under the ‘Make in India’ initiative to enhance anti-drone and loitering munition defence.
DAC CLEARED MAJOR DEFENCE PROCUREMENT PROPOSALS
In March this year, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for defence proposals worth approximately Rs 2.38 lakh crore.
The approvals included procurement of the S-400 long-range surface-to-air missile system for the Indian Air Force, along with medium transport aircraft and remotely piloted strike aircraft.
A report with news agency ANI mentioned, “The S-400 system will counter enemy long-range air vectors targeting vital areas," highlighting its strategic importance in India’s air defence architecture.
It also noted that the induction of medium transport aircraft would replace ageing fleets such as AN-32 and IL-76 to meet operational airlift requirements.
For the Army, the DAC approved systems, including the Dhanush Gun System, Air Defence Tracked System and Runway Independent Aerial Surveillance System, aimed at enhancing battlefield capability, surveillance and communication.
DEFENCE MODERNISATION PUSH WITH RECORD AoN APPROVALS
Another report during the same time quoted an official as saying that the system would address “enemy long-range air vectors targeting vital areas," while also enabling broader operational readiness through complementary platforms such as remotely piloted strike aircraft and upgraded Su-30 engines.
It further noted that in FY 2025-26, the DAC has approved 55 proposals amounting to Rs 6.73 lakh crore, with capital procurement contracts worth Rs 2.28 lakh crore already signed, marking the highest-ever levels in a single financial year.
The approvals also extended to the Indian Coast Guard, including heavy-duty air cushion vehicles for coastal patrol, reconnaissance, search and rescue operations, and logistical support.
Source: News18