Context:
India and Russia continue to deepen their defence and strategic cooperation, with India exploring the procurement of additional S-400 air defence missile systems from Russia. Simultaneously, Russia has offered its Su-57 fifth-generation stealth fighter aircraft to India. These developments took place during discussions between Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his Russian counterpart Andrey Belousov, alongside President Vladimir Putin’s visit to New Delhi for summit-level talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Key Highlights:
Expansion of India–Russia Defence Cooperation
• India is considering the acquisition of additional S-400 missile system units to strengthen its air defence network.
• The existing agreement, signed in October 2018, involves five S-400 units worth USD 5 billion.
• Three squadrons have already been delivered, despite geopolitical pressures.
Operational Effectiveness of S-400
• The S-400 missile system demonstrated its effectiveness during Operation Sindoor, reinforcing India’s interest in expanding its deployment.
• The system significantly enhances India’s layered air defence capability against hostile aircraft, drones, and missiles.
Offer of Su-57 Fighter Jets
• Russia has offered the Su-57, a fifth-generation stealth fighter aircraft, to India.
• The offer aligns with India’s long-term requirement for advanced combat aircraft and force modernisation.
• Potential cooperation may involve technology sharing and indigenous manufacturing, supporting India’s self-reliance goals.
Strategic and Political Dimensions
• India proceeded with the initial S-400 deal despite threats of U.S. sanctions under CAATSA.
• Russia has reiterated its commitment to support India’s defence modernisation and Atmanirbhar Bharat objectives.
• The relationship is underpinned by deep trust, mutual respect, and strategic convergence, contributing to regional stability.
Relevant Prelims Points:
• Issue: Strengthening India’s air defence and combat capabilities amid evolving security threats.
• Causes: Regional security challenges, need for credible deterrence, and modernisation of armed forces.
• Government Initiative: Strategic defence procurement and international defence collaboration.
• Benefits: Enhanced air defence, improved internal security, technology acquisition.
• Challenges: CAATSA-related sanctions risk, financial costs, integration with indigenous systems.
• Impact: Strengthens national security and reinforces India–Russia strategic partnership.
Relevant Mains Points:
• Key Concepts:
– S-400 Missile System: Mobile surface-to-air missile (SAM) system capable of engaging aircraft, UAVs, and ballistic missiles.
– Fifth-Generation Fighter Jets: Aircraft with stealth, advanced avionics, network-centric warfare capability, and high manoeuvrability.
– CAATSA: U.S. law imposing sanctions on countries engaging in significant defence transactions with Russia.
• Strategic Significance:
– Enhances India’s airspace security and deterrence posture.
– Supports defence indigenisation through possible technology transfer.
• Way Forward:
– Balance defence preparedness with diplomatic engagement.
– Diversify defence procurement while strengthening indigenous R&D.
– Continue strategic autonomy in foreign and security policy.
UPSC Relevance (GS-wise):
• GS 2: International Relations – Strategic partnerships, defence diplomacy, sanctions regime.
• GS 3: Internal Security – Air defence systems, military modernisation, national security preparedness.