Russian Ambassador in India, Denis Alipov, on Wednesday confirmed that talks between India and Russia regarding the purchase of more S-400 air defense systems are underway as part of their enhanced strategic partnership.
In a special interview with IANS, Alipov appreciated the S-400 system and the BrahMos missiles' performance during Operation Sindoor, terming their utilization as "exemplary." Alipov further added that India identified targets and terrorists clearly and used these defence systems quite effectively in recent operations.
India and Russia have a long history of defence cooperation under the IRIGC-M&MTC platform, including collaborative projects like licensed production of T-90 tanks and Su-30 MKI fighters, supply of MiG-29 and Kamov helicopters, INS Vikramaditya aircraft carrier, Indian-made Ak-203 rifles, and BrahMos missile development.
The relationship has moved from mere buyer-seller relations to more complex joint research, co-development, and production of advanced defence technology.
After India's recent military operations and retaliatory success against Pakistan, the S-400 system is attributed with shooting down several missiles fired across the border.
Though media reports indicated that India is likely to soon get additional S-400 systems, Ambassador Alipov said negotiations regarding this and other defence issues are "under way," but now it is too early to provide any details.
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