India is ramping up its air defense capabilities by seeking around 280 additional S-400 interceptor missiles. This move marks a key step in strengthening ties with Russia and boosting local manufacturing.
While a formal contract is yet to be signed, talks between Indian and Russian officials are underway. The goal is to assemble and partially manufacture these missiles in India. This means Russia would send crucial parts, and Indian firms would handle the final assembly and testing. Although it doesn’t provide full technology transfer, it moves India closer to self-reliance in air defense.
Here’s how the production plan is structured:
- Indian Industry: Will make the structural parts, which don’t involve sensitive technology.
- Russia: Will supply essential mission systems like radar and guidance units.
- Final Assembly: This will occur in India, following strict quality standards.
This initiative aims to reduce reliance on imports and speed up replenishment of missile stocks during tense situations. The S-400, known as the “Sudarshan” system in India, is expected to be a key part of the country’s air defense strategy until at least 2040. Recent supply chain issues globally have highlighted the need for a domestic support system.
The S-400 showed its effectiveness during Operation Sindoor in May 2025, successfully targeting five enemy aircraft, including F-16s, from over 300 kilometers away.
This initiative also ties into India’s “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” or Self-Reliant India campaign, offering local manufacturers valuable experience in advanced engineering and testing. Even though Russia is cautious about sharing its core technologies, this partnership helps India build foundational skills for future projects like Project Kusha, designed for long-range air defense.
Looking ahead, this assembly model could set the stage for future defense collaborations, possibly influencing discussions around advanced systems like the S-500 Prometey. The fourth squadron of S-400s is scheduled for delivery by May 2026, with the last one expected in 2027.
In a recent survey, nearly 70% of defense analysts agreed that local manufacturing of military equipment not only enhances national security but also generates jobs and stimulates the economy. This emphasis on self-reliance may redefine India’s posturing in the regional security landscape.
For more on India’s defense initiatives, you can refer to Defense.gov for a broader context.
