India is advancing its plans to acquire five more S-400 Triumf air defense systems from Russia, following Moscow’s submission of a cost proposal to initiate negotiations with New Delhi. The final decision on this acquisition will likely be made by the Cabinet Committee on Security after price negotiations are concluded and the Finance Ministry gives its clearance. The initial contract, signed in 2018 for $5.43 billion, is set to be fulfilled with the final system delivery scheduled for November 2026.
The potential procurement of these additional S-400 systems aims to bolster India’s air defense capabilities, particularly in the eastern sector adjacent to China. The S-400’s performance was notably significant during Operation Sindoor in May 2025, which has been a strong factor in India’s decision to expand its fleet of these defense systems.
In contrast, India has not yet reached a decision regarding the acquisition of Russia’s Su-57 fifth-generation fighter aircraft. Although the Indian Air Force has shown interest in the proposal, the matter remains undecided amid the backdrop of China’s deployment of J-20 stealth fighters in Tibet.
This proposed acquisition is expected to be a central topic in broader India-Russia defense discussions. The discussions are anticipated to gain momentum with the upcoming visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin to India for the BRICS summit in September.