India urges Russia to expedite S-400 deliveries amid geopolitical tensions

India has urged Russia to accelerate the delivery of the S-400 air defence missile system, citing strategic imperatives amid heightened geopolitical tensions.

Originally slated for completion by 2024, delays stemming from Russia's conflict with Ukraine have postponed the timeline, Caliber.Az reports citing the foreign media.

India has already operationalized three squadrons and seeks expedited deployment to enhance its air defence capabilities against aerial threats from China and Pakistan. Given recent advancements in indigenous missile systems, India considers the S-400 crucial.

In light of deepening ties between India and Russia, New Delhi has pressed Moscow to expedite and advance deliveries of the S-400 air defence missile system. Due to ongoing delays caused by Russia's conflict with Ukraine, Russian authorities have informed India that the fourth and fifth squadrons of the highly capable system are expected to be delivered by March 2026 and October 2026, respectively.

India and Russia entered into a contract in 2019 for the acquisition of five squadrons of this advanced air defence system, capable of targeting threats up to distances exceeding 400 kilometres.

"India has requested the Russian side during recent discussions to accelerate deliveries to meet the requirements of the Indian Air Force and to attempt to expedite the schedule," defense officials said.

According to sources, the Russian side has pledged to consider the request. To date, Russia has delivered three of these air defence systems, which have been operationalized and deployed along both the China and Pakistan borders.

The S-400 acquisition has been viewed as a crucial component of India's defence modernization efforts, complementing its indigenous missile development programs and existing air defence capabilities. As geopolitical tensions in the region continue to evolve, the deployment of the S-400 systems is expected to play a pivotal role in India's defence strategy, safeguarding its airspace from potential threats in the foreseeable future.