Russia Assures Timely Delivery Of S-400 Systems During Bilateral Talks

Russia has assured India of the timely delivery of the remaining S-400 air defense systems, reaffirming its commitment to completing the high-value defense deal during a bilateral meeting held between Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and his Russian counterpart Andrey Belousov on Thursday.

The meeting, held on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defense Ministers’ Summit in Qingdao, focused on enhancing defense cooperation and reviewed the progress of key strategic projects, including the delivery status of the S-400 Triumf missile systems.

Belousov confirmed that while India has already received three of the five S-400 systems it ordered, the remaining two units are on track for delivery within the agreed timeframe. “The delivery schedule is being adhered to, and the remaining systems will be delivered soon,” the Russian Defense Minister stated.

India had signed a $5.43 billion agreement with Russia in 2018 for five squadrons of the S-400, a long-range air defense platform capable of tracking and neutralising multiple aerial threats, including aircraft, cruise missiles, and drones. The S-400 system is a cornerstone of India’s air defence capability and has already been deployed in key strategic locations.

The operational S-400 systems played a crucial role during Operation Sindoor, where they were used effectively by Indian forces to intercept and destroy incoming missiles and drones launched from across the border by Pakistan.

Beyond the S-400, both ministers discussed strengthening wider bilateral cooperation in defense and related sectors, emphasizing the importance of maintaining strategic ties amidst evolving regional security dynamics.

Later in the day, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh is also scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting with the Chinese Defense Minister, where regional security and border issues are expected to be discussed.