India-Russia S-400 Missile Defence Deal: Positive news continues to emerge regarding defence cooperation between India and Russia. Recently, two important developments related to the S-400 air defence system have further strengthened this partnership. Let’s understand this in detail in simple terms.
On February 12, 2026, it was revealed that Russia will deliver the remaining two squadrons of S-400 air defence system to India this year. India had signed a contract for a total of five squadrons, of which three have already been received. Now, the fourth squadron is expected to be delivered by June and fifth by November. This will further strengthen India’s air defence capabilities.
India-Russia S-400 Missile Defence Deal: Approval granted for the purchase of 288 missiles
On February 13, 2026, Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, granted “Acceptance of Necessity” (AoN) for purchase of 288 missiles used in the S-400 system. The deal is reported to be worth approximately ₹10,000 crore. These missiles will be procured under the Fast Track Procedure (FTP) to ensure they are made available to the Indian Armed Forces as quickly as possible. The proposal will include 120 short-range and 168 long-range missiles.
S400 Air Defence System Missile: The S-400 Missiles’ Range
S-400 system is equipped with missiles with varying ranges. These include surface-to-air missiles with ranges of 40 km, 150 km, 200 km, and 400 km. This diverse range makes it a multi-layered defence shield.
The system is capable of tracking and destroying enemy fighter jets, drones, ballistic missiles, and other aerial threats. Its missiles can fly at speeds of approximately 4.8 kilometres per second (Mach 14) and can hit targets at altitudes of approximately 30 kilometres.
India Russia Defence Deal: Key Role in Operation Sindoor
S-400 system proved its effectiveness during Operation Sindoor. Using it, the Indian Armed Forces successfully thwarted numerous Pakistani air raids, successfully intercepting fighter jets, surveillance aircraft, and several combat drones. This experience led to the realisation that maintaining an adequate stockpile of these missiles was essential to effectively respond to any future emergency.
Long-Range Precision Strike
In one incident, India targeted a vital military aircraft located approximately 314 kilometres inside Pakistan with a long-range missile. Following this action, Pakistan was forced to reposition its military aircraft.
Impact on Pakistan’s Radar Systems
S-400 systems deployed in the Adampur and Bhuj sectors impacted the capabilities of several Pakistani radar stations. Radar systems located in the Lahore, Rawalpindi, Sialkot, and Pasrur areas were effectively disabled. As a result, the Pakistan Air Force was unable to launch an active response during May 2025.
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