The S-500 missile defence system and Su-57 stealth fighter are emerging as key defence discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the SCO Summit, as India looks to expand its military cooperation with Moscow, according to a TOI report. The talks come after the S-400, deployed during Operation Sindoor, reportedly demonstrated its capabilities against aerial threats, strengthening the case for adding newer Russian systems to India’s defence arsenal.
The S-400, which is designed to provide theatre-level air defence with a reach of up to 400 kilometres, was reportedly effective in detecting and countering aerial threats during Operation Sindoor. Its reported performance has added momentum to discussions about adding capabilities that could address threats beyond the system’s primary role.