India and Russia are exploring the possibility of expanding their defense partnership with fresh deliveries of the S-400 Triumf surface-to-air missile systems. The update emerged soon after Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Russian President Vladimir Putin during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Tianjin, China.
According to Russian news agency TASS, Dmitry Shugayev, who heads Russia’s Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation, confirmed that discussions are underway. He noted that India already operates the advanced air defense platform and that both countries see potential for further cooperation. While the talks are at an early stage, the proposal signals strengthening defense ties.
India’s agreement with Russia for five S-400 squadrons, valued at $5.43 billion, was signed in 2018. Three squadrons have been delivered so far. Locally renamed as “Sudarshan Chakra,” the system has been deployed to counter threats such as drones and missiles. During heightened tensions with Pakistan, the system reportedly intercepted hostile drones launched in retaliation to Operation Sindoor, reinforcing its operational value.
However, delays have marked the project. Reuters reported that the final two units are now scheduled for delivery in 2026 and 2027. Roman Babushkin, Russia’s Deputy Chief of Mission in India, recently reassured that the timeline is on track, with the remaining squadrons expected by 2025–2026. He further highlighted the long-standing defense cooperation between the two nations and left the door open for extended dialogue on air defense collaboration.
The Modi-Putin camaraderie at Tianjin drew widespread attention. A video of both leaders walking hand-in-hand with Chinese President Xi Jinping quickly went viral, symbolizing warmth in their interactions. Putin was seen waiting nearly 10 minutes for Modi before the two shared a ride in the Russian-made Aurus limousine. Their 15-minute drive turned into an hour-long conversation before formal bilateral talks at the summit venue.
During the meeting, President Putin referred to Modi as his “dear friend,” while the Indian leader emphasized that the India-Russia relationship had endured even in challenging times. These remarks, coupled with the ongoing discussions over advanced defense systems, reaffirm the depth of the strategic partnership between the two nations.
