S-400 missile system: Defense Minister Rajnath Singh met Russia’s Defense Minister Andre Bellasov in Kingdao, China, on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Conference. In this meeting, he raised the issue of delay in delivery of two units of S-400 missile defense system. Although Russia had earlier assured delivery by 2025, but now it is believed that the timeline has slipped to 2026-27.
S-400 role in Operation Sindoor was decisive
During the last operation vermilion, the missile and drone attacks from Pakistan were deactivated by the Indian Air Force S-400 units. Pakistan had falsely claimed to target the S-400 unit in Adampur Airbase. After this, on May 13, Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself reached Adampur and took photographs with the S-400 unit and gave a befitting reply to Pakistan.
S-400, SU-30 MKI upgrade and discussion on defense production
In the meeting, the two leaders also discussed in detail on topics such as defense production, air-to-death missiles, air defense systems and upgrade of aerial platform. According to the Ministry of Defense, the meeting also discussed the upgrade of SU-30 MKI fighter jet and timely military equipment supply.
Strengthen India-Russia Defense Relations
Russia’s Defense Minister Belwsov appreciated the long-term defense relations of India-Russia and said that these relationships have lived up to the test of time. Also expressed solidarity with India on the terrorist attack in Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir on 22 April.
S-400 is the world’s most powerful air defense system
The S-400 system was dealt with between India and Russia in the year 2018 for ₹ 39,000 crore. Its range ranges from 40 to 400 km and it is a mobile system which can be moved from one place to another. It can destroy the enemy’s nuclear missiles in the air itself. This is a completely mobile system, which can be transported from army vehicle to any location. It also has the power to kill the nuclear missile in the air before entering the Indian border.
Delivery can be done by 2026–27
Although earlier Russia assured delivery by 2025, it is now believed that the supply of two units will be completed by 2026–27. This missile system is also capable of destroying hypersonic weapons, fighter jets and ballistic missiles.
Discussion on defense cooperation, terrorist attacks and defense production also
The meeting also discussed India-Russia Defense Cooperation, border terrorism and upgradation of air defense, air-to-air missiles and air platforms. Bellasov expressed solidarity with India on the Pahalgam terror attack and appreciated the long-term relations between India-Russia.