India to Receive Remaining S-400 Air Defense Missiles by 2026 Amid Russia-Ukraine Conflict

Defense News ,India :-  Amid ongoing fighting between Russia and Ukraine, Russia has told India that it will provide the last two squadrons of the S-400 long-range air defense missile system by August 2026.

India and Russia agreed to buy five squadrons of the S-400 air defense system. Three squadrons have been delivered, but the last two were delayed due to the situation with the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Russia recently informed India that they will deliver the remaining two squadrons by August 2026.

The S-400 air defense system is powerful, capable of targeting objects up to 400 kilometers away. It can effectively counter fighter jets and cruise missiles.

Originally, Russia planned to deliver all systems by 2024. However, due to the ongoing conflict, they had to adjust their plans.

India and Russia signed a deal worth over Rs 35,000 crore for the S-400 air defense missiles. The delivery was expected to be completed by the end of 2023-24, but there might be a delay.

The Indian Air Force has been enhancing its air defense capabilities. It recently received indigenous MR-SAM and Akash missile systems, along with the Israeli Spyder quick reaction surface-to-air missile systems.

The Indian Air Force believes that the S-400 will be a game-changer for them.

Additionally, India has initiated Project 'Kusha' to develop its indigenous long-range defense system, created by DRDO, to neutralize enemy threats.

China has deployed significant air defense systems along the Line of Actual Control. In response, India has also deployed its own systems there.