A day after announcing the acquisition of 114 Rafale multirole fighter aircraft from France, India has approved the purchase of 288 S-400 air defence missiles from Russia, significantly strengthening its aerial shield amid evolving regional threats.

According to reports, the Defence Acquisition Council cleared the proposal worth about Rs 10,000 crore under the Fast Track Procedure. The procurement includes 120 short-range missiles and 168 long-range missiles, aimed at replenishing stocks following heavy operational use in 2025.

Replenishment After Operation Sindoor

The new acquisition comes after India deployed its S-400 systems extensively during Operation Sindoor in May 2025. During the operation, the system reportedly intercepted hostile aircraft, drones and other aerial threats, leading to substantial depletion of missile inventory.

Officials indicated that replenishing these stocks is critical to maintaining readiness, especially given the system’s role as India’s most advanced long-range air defence platform. India is also expected to receive two additional S-400 squadrons already contracted from Russia later this year.

Part Of Wider Military Modernisation

The missile purchase forms part of a broader defence procurement push. The defence ministry recently granted Acceptance of Necessity for projects worth approximately Rs 3.60 lakh crore across the armed forces.

Key approvals include anti-tank mines, overhaul of armoured vehicle platforms such as T-72 tanks and BMP-II infantry combat vehicles, marine power systems for the Navy, and additional P-8I maritime reconnaissance aircraft.

The Rafale fighter deal, involving 114 aircraft with most to be manufactured in India, is expected to significantly enhance the Indian Air Force’s air dominance and deep-strike capabilities. Officials say the combined acquisitions will improve deterrence across both offensive and defensive domains.

What Makes The S-400 Critical

The S-400 Triumf system is widely regarded as one of the world’s most capable surface-to-air missile platforms. It can engage multiple targets simultaneously, including fighter jets, stealth aircraft, cruise missiles, drones and ballistic missiles at ranges of up to 400 km.

Its layered defence capability allows protection of large geographic areas and critical infrastructure, making it a cornerstone of India’s integrated air defence network.

Analysts note that the replenishment underscores New Delhi’s focus on maintaining credible deterrence amid heightened regional tensions. With new fighter aircraft, advanced missiles and expanded surveillance capabilities, India is moving to build a comprehensive multi-layered defence posture for future conflicts.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share