Putin's Visit Spurs Revival in India-Russia Defence Ties: Additional S-400 Systems and Advanced Tech Transfers on the Table
As a result of President Vladimir Putin's visit to India, there will be a revival in Defence Cooperation between the two nations, with Russia offering to supply additional S400 Reserves to Indian clients along with deeper Technology Transfers. These discussions follow India's efforts to diversify its Defence Import Strategy while simultaneously continuing critical strategic partnerships with Russia.
Aadrika Tayal 
New Delhi (India) December 1: President Vladimir Putin will visit India for the 23rd Annual Summit on 4 and 5 December 2025, marking the first time he has visited India since the beginning of the Russia – Ukraine War and the commencement of Indian Military Operations (Operation Sindoor). Talks on DefenceCooperation, and specifically potential new contracts for the purchase of S400 Air Defence Systems, will dominate the agenda of the meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Putin, and will reaffirm the long-standing strategic partnership between India and Russia.
New S-400 Air Defence Contracts
At the summit, India and Russia are likely to explore further collaboration on multiple Defence Projects including Russia's offer to support the Indian Air Force with an additional two to three new S400 regiments. Although India remains one of the primary users of Russian Military Equipment (over 60-70% of its inventory), the share of Russian Arms Supplies (including other military hardware) has declined significantly in recent years.
Operational Success of S-400 in India’s Recent Military Operations
The operational achievements associated with the S-400, designated the “Sudarshan Chakra” in India during Operation Sindoor in May, underscore the capability of this system. The S-400 unit located at Adampur was responsible for the interception of an aircraft belonging to Pakistan at a distance of 314 kilometres. Furthermore, the Indian Air Force has also confirmed that the S-400 system was responsible for neutralising seven Pakistani aircraft simultaneously while tracking more than 300 airborne targets.
Collaborative Projects in Advanced Military Technology and Equipment
In addition to Air Defence Cooperation with the S-400 system, India and Russia have collaborated on MiG-29 fighter aircraft, Kamov helicopters, T-72 tanks, BMP-2 armoured vehicles and stealth frigates for the Indian Navy. The BrahMos missile and AK-203 Assault Rifle also show the strength of India-Russia relationship.
Discussions between the two nations will focus on the importance of timely and consistent delivery of all defence articles as well as the necessity for ongoing maintenance support defined by the present-day regional security environment.
Strengthening Strategic Defence Partnership with Russia
According to information obtained from sources, Rostec, Russia’s state-owned defence conglomerate, has already commenced preliminary discussions regarding a new S-400 contract. Rostec has also provided assurances to India that the delivery of the S-400 will take place on time, which is of top priority to the Government of India after the delays in deliveries following the outbreak of conflict in Ukraine. In total, Russia has signed an agreement with India for five S-400 regiments worth USD 5.43 billion. Of these five regiments, three have been delivered, and two remain to be delivered in the time frame between early and mid-2026.
