India’s acquisition of the S-400 air defence system from Russia stands as a significant pillar in its ongoing military modernisation and strategic preparedness. With the recent confirmation that the remaining two units of the system will be delivered by 2025-2026, India reaffirms its commitment to building a layered and robust air defence network. This development, against the backdrop of shifting global alliances and the weaponisation of geopolitical dependencies, marks a moment to reflect on the strength, depth, and strategic value of the India-Russia defence relationship. Signed in 2018 for a staggering $5.43 billion, the S-400 deal was a bold statement of India’s strategic autonomy. Despite significant pressure from the United States and threats of sanctions under CAATSA (Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act), India chose to prioritise its national security over foreign pressure. Three squadrons of the S-400 have already been inducted and reportedly played a crucial role in maintaining deterrence during recent tensions between India and Pakistan. The system performed “very efficiently”, underscoring the operational advantage it offers against aerial threats, especially in scenarios involving Pakistan’s American-origin fighter jets.
The S-400 is no ordinary missile system. It is among the most advanced long-range surface-to-air missile systems in the world, capable of intercepting and destroying targets at ranges up to 400 km, including stealth aircraft, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles. For India, a country surrounded by two nuclear-armed neighbours-Pakistan and China-the S-400 is not just a technological acquisition but a strategic imperative. Its induction significantly upgrades India’s air defence architecture and provides an effective shield over its critical assets and cities. However, the importance of the S-400 goes beyond its technical capabilities. It is also a testament to the long-standing and resilient defence partnership between India and Russia. For decades, Russia has been India’s principal defence partner. The Indian Air Force’s backbone is still formed by Russian-origin aircraft, notably the MiG and Sukhoi fighter jets. The Su-30MKI, jointly developed and extensively customised for India, remains the most numerous and versatile fighter in India’s fleet.
This partnership is not one of mere buyer and seller. It is based on joint development, technology transfer, and mutual strategic trust. India has often benefited from Russian willingness to share advanced technology and co-produce defence platforms, a gesture not often seen from Western partners. In return, India has stood by Russia in times of international isolation, upholding its strategic independence by maintaining ties even when global winds shift. Today’s geopolitical landscape is increasingly polarised. Russia, facing isolation from much of the West following its actions in Ukraine, finds in India a reliable partner that is not just transactional but also geopolitically significant. For India, this cooperation means continued access to advanced systems like the S-400, potential collaboration on anti-drone and next-gen air defence technologies, and the opportunity to strengthen its indigenous capabilities through co-development.
The evolving nature of warfare-where drones, hypersonic weapons, and cyber capabilities are becoming central-calls for flexible and forward-looking partnerships. As drone warfare becomes a daily reality, especially with examples from conflicts like Armenia-Azerbaijan and Ukraine, India’s interest in strengthening its counter-drone capability aligns well with Russian expertise and battlefield experience.
In many ways, the India-Russia defence relationship is a win-win situation. Russia secures a stable and significant defence market amid Western sanctions and isolation. India, in turn, gains access to battle-proven systems and a partner that respects its sovereignty and strategic priorities. As the world moves towards new security alignments-like AUKUS, QUAD, and greater Indo-Pacific militarisation-India is uniquely positioned. It engages with the West through exercises and strategic dialogues yet maintains deep defence ties with Russia. This balanced approach enhances India’s strategic flexibility and reinforces its status as an autonomous power in a multipolar world. The S-400 is a symbol of strategic continuity, technological ambition, and India’s desire to build credible deterrence while navigating a complex geopolitical landscape. In partnership with Russia, India strengthens not only its defence capabilities but also its long-term vision of self-reliance and global strategic autonomy.
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