The BRICS Times
Dmitry Shugayev also revealed that Moscow is considering offering Su-57 fighter jets to New Delhi.
Russia and India are currently engaged in discussions regarding the possible supply of additional S-400 surface-to-air missile systems to New Delhi, Russian news agency TASS reported on Monday, quoting a senior defense official from Moscow.
India had signed a $5.43 billion deal with Russia in 2018 for five S-400 air defense units, of which three have already been handed over. The delivery of the remaining two systems is scheduled for 2026.
“As is known, India has our S-400 system,” noted Dmitry Shugayev, who heads the Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation, according to the report. “There is an opportunity to expand cooperation in this sector as well. It means new supplies. So far, we are negotiating this.”
The deployment of the S-400 has been crucial for India in safeguarding its air bases and other sensitive installations, particularly during Pakistan’s counterstrikes in the four-day conflict between the two countries in May.
“Platforms like the S-400 have given unprecedented strength to the country,” Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had remarked while addressing soldiers in May, shortly after the clashes concluded.
In addition to missile defense systems, Shugayev highlighted on Monday that talks are also advancing on another front—India’s interest in acquiring Sukhoi Su-57 fighter jets. The country is seeking at least two squadrons of fifth-generation aircraft, and the Russian-made Su-57 is being evaluated alongside options like the F-35.
According to ANI News, Moscow is exploring possibilities to establish production of the Su-57 in India. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), which already manufactures the Su-30 MKI, could potentially serve as the production hub if the proposal moves forward, defense sources told the outlet.
India continues to rely significantly on Russian-made or Russian-designed weaponry, with approximately 60% of its defense inventory originating from the country. As New Delhi intensifies its push for domestic arms manufacturing under its self-reliance drive, Russian defense companies are aiming to expand joint production initiatives with Indian partners.
