India’s $1.2 billion missile boost: 288 S-400 systems to fortify air defenses like never before | World News

New Delhi: India has moved decisively to strengthen its skies by approving the purchase of 288 anti-aircraft missiles for S-400 Triumph air defense systems from Russia. According to sources cited by Hindustan Times, the value of the deal is around 10,000 crore (about $1.2 billion).

The contract covers 120 short-range missiles and 168 long-range missiles. This is an important step in India’s plan to expand its air defense capabilities. Officials say the decision came after a detailed review of Operation Sindoor and lessons learned from previous clashes with Pakistani forces.

The Indian Air Force aims to deploy five additional S-400 Triumph systems to create a dense protective shield over key strategic areas. In addition to these long-range systems, officials are also considering the purchase of short-range Pantsir-M anti-aircraft missiles and weapon systems to protect critical infrastructure and military airspaces.

Despite ambitious plans, India has faced delays in acquiring S-400 systems. The war in Ukraine increased Russia’s demand for these systems, delaying delivery times.

In a bilateral meeting last year, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov agreed on new transfer deadlines set for 2026-2027. This was the second postponement.

India deployed S-400 systems for the first time in 2021, and the first set of regiments were deployed in the Punjab region to counter potential threats from Pakistan. Although five divisions were ordered from Russia, delivery problems persisted, negatively impacting the country’s overall defense readiness amid rising regional tensions.

Experts say the new missile acquisition is part of a broader effort to create a multi-layered air defense network that combines long-range systems for strategic protection with short-range systems for rapid response coverage to sensitive areas. This acquisition underscores India’s focus on modernizing its military infrastructure to counter evolving air threats.