India and Russia are expected to conduct detailed negotiations in the coming weeks regarding the potential supply of long-range air defence systems, sources close to the matter have told idrw.org. The primary focus of these talks will be on procuring two to three additional S-400 Triumf regiments and replenishing missiles used in previous operations.
Exploratory Discussions on S-500 Systems
While the S-500 Prometheus system has not yet been exported to any country, discussions about it are slated for the upcoming meetings. Sources indicate that no immediate contract is likely; the talks will largely serve to gauge Russia’s willingness to supply the system and India’s potential requirements.
Additional S-400 Procurement
The main agenda remains the expansion of India’s S-400 capabilities. India is currently the only country to have received the full-specification S-400 system, with missiles identical to those used by the Russian Armed Forces, unlike export versions delivered to other countries. Of the five regiments contracted in 2018, three have already been delivered and are operational, while two are still pending.
India is seeking two to three more complete S-400 regiments, contingent on the Russian manufacturer Almaz-Antey committing to faster delivery schedules to avoid delays experienced with the original contract.
Replenishment of Missile Stocks
In addition to new regiments, India plans to place a follow-on order for approximately 300 S-400 surface-to-air missiles. This order aims to replace missiles expended during the recent India-Pakistan conflict in May 2025 and to build deeper reserves for the expanded S-400 regiment inventory.
