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SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The delivery of India’s fourth S-400 squadron from Russia, originally scheduled for 2025, may now be delayed until early 2026, with the fifth squadron expected to arrive by mid-2026, according to recent media reports. Last month Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief, Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, acknowledged the delay, attributing it to disruptions stemming from the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. This announcement came despite earlier indications of an accelerated delivery timeline, adding new challenges to India’s air defence upgrade plans.

In 2018, India signed a $5.43 billion contract with Russia for five S-400 air defense squadrons to strengthen its aerial defence capabilities. The deal positioned India as one of a select group of nations equipped with Russia’s advanced S-400 missile systems, known for their long-range precision and versatility in intercepting aircraft, UAVs, and ballistic and cruise missiles. With three squadrons already deployed by the IAF, the remaining two squadrons are highly anticipated to complete India’s comprehensive, multi-layered air defense network.

The disruption in delivery timelines is attributed to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, which has affected Russian defense exports due to production and logistical challenges. As Russia prioritizes its own military requirements, fulfilling export orders has become increasingly challenging, resulting in delays for customers like India. This delay affects not only delivery schedules but also poses challenges for India’s defense planners, who are keen on operationalizing the full S-400 system as soon as possible to achieve optimal defensive coverage.

Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh Last month highlighted these delays in a press briefing, explaining the logistical and production issues impacting the delivery. He also said “We will be receiving the next two squadrons of S-400 next year. The delivery has been delayed due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict,” Singh said. The delay extends the timeline for India’s complete operational integration of the S-400, a crucial element in its air defence modernization efforts.

Despite the delays, the S-400 program remains a key component of India-Russia defense cooperation. The S-400 deal reflects India’s longstanding defense relationship with Russia, which has historically been a major supplier of advanced military technology. The relationship is further cemented by joint projects, such as the BrahMos missile program, and continued defense trade. However, the delays may drive India to explore additional suppliers or bolster indigenous development for future air defense requirements.

As India waits for the arrival of the final two S-400 squadrons, the Indian Air Force will likely continue adapting its existing air defense strategy to optimize the capabilities of the deployed S-400 systems. With the delayed delivery, the IAF may also explore ways to maximize the interoperability between the S-400 and other indigenous and imported defense systems, ensuring that India’s air defense remains robust in the face of evolving security challenges.

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