India approves major missile purchase for S-400 defence systems from Russia

India’s Ministry of Defence has approved the procurement of a large batch of missiles for its Russian-made S-400 surface-to-air missile systems, The Times of India reports, citing sources.

The sources said India will acquire S-400 missiles of varying ranges to replenish stockpiles used during the India-Pakistan military conflict in May, as well as to build reserves of this weaponry.

The ministry has also approved a one-year contract with Russia for the technical maintenance of the S-400 systems currently in service with the Indian Army. Under the agreement, Russia will establish a maintenance and repair center for these missile systems in India.

In addition, the government’s security committee, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, plans to approve upgrades to the first batch of 84 Su-30MKI fighter jets, equipping them with modern avionics, radars, and long-range weaponry. The Indian Air Force operates a total of 259 Russian-made Su-30MKIs.

“While the upgrades will be carried out indigenously, Russia will have some role in it,” the sources emphasised.

India signed a deal with Russia in 2018 to purchase five S-400 missile regiments for $5.43 billion. The first “Triumf” system received from Russia was deployed in Punjab, along the border with Pakistan.

By Khagan Isayev