India’s plan to acquire five more S-400 Triumf air defence systems from Russia has moved forward, with Moscow sending a Bill of Quantities (BOQ) proposal to New Delhi.
The proposal details the construction and material costs and is expected to form the basis for negotiations between the two sides.
The final approval for the acquisition will be taken by the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) after the cost is finalised and the finance ministry gives its clearance.
Fifth S-400 system to arrive in November
The latest move comes as India prepares to receive the fifth and final S-400 system under the $5.43 billion contract signed with Russia in 2018.
According to the report, the fifth system is expected to reach India in November 2026 and will be deployed in the country’s eastern sector, facing China.
The additional systems are expected to strengthen India’s long-range air defence capability amid continuing security concerns along the country’s northern and eastern borders.
S-400’s role in Operation Sindoor
The S-400 systems played a significant role during Operation Sindoor in May 2025, according to Indian defence sources cited in the report.
One S-400 long-range missile was reported to have engaged a Pakistani airborne early-warning aircraft at a distance of around 314 km.
The report also said Pakistani forces attempted to target S-400 deployments at Adampur and Bhuj with kamikaze drones.
Indian air defence systems, including the S-400 and Akash systems, were credited with helping counter Pakistani aerial threats during the conflict.
China factor behind air defence push
India’s interest in expanding its S-400 fleet also comes against the backdrop of China’s deployment of J-20 fifth-generation fighter aircraft at airbases in Tibet, according to the report.
While some reports have suggested that India has decided to acquire two squadrons of Russia’s Su-57 fifth-generation fighter, the report said no such decision has been taken.
The Indian Air Force has, however, shown interest in Russia’s proposal, according to sources cited by Hindustan Times.
CCS approval still pending
The acquisition of five additional S-400 squadrons is not yet a finalised deal.
Cost negotiations with Moscow and clearance from the finance ministry will have to be completed before the proposal goes before the CCS for approval.
The development comes ahead of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s expected visit to New Delhi for the BRICS summit from September 11 to 13, with defence cooperation between India and Russia likely to remain an important area of discussion.
