Russia remains committed to delivering a shipment of S-400 anti-aircraft systems to India within the agreed timeframe, according to a report by news agency Reuters.
The Reuters report is based on a report by Interfax news agency that quotes a senior Russian defence export official as saying that the S-400 delivery to India would be completed on schedule.
"The production of S-400 Triumf anti-aircraft missile systems is being carried out according to schedule," Dmitry Shugaev, head of Russia's Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation, was quoted as saying by Interfax.
"The delivery of the equipment of the S-400 Triumf system is expected to be completed within the agreed time frame," he added. According to Interfax news agency, Dmitry Shugaev made these remarks while speaking at an armed forces event.
Officials in New Delhi have raised concerns regarding the potential disruption of planned weapons and equipment deliveries due to Russia's involvement in the conflict in Ukraine, according to the Reuters report.
Back in 2018, India procured units of the S-400 Triumf air defense system for a sum of $5.4 billion. Presently, three of these systems have been successfully delivered, with an additional two systems still awaiting transportation.
The planned deliveries are slated to be finalized by the conclusion of 2024, as reported by Interfax.
The Indian Air Force communicated in March that the conflict in Ukraine has caused delays in critical defense supplies originating from Russia.
In recent years, New Delhi has actively pursued diversification of imports and the potential substitution of foreign equipment with domestically produced hardware. This diversification strategy has encompassed the acquisition of French fighter jets, Israeli drones, and U.S. jet engines.
However, it is noteworthy that Russia's share in India's arms import expenditure since 2017 is substantial, accounting for $8.5 billion of the $18.3 billion, based on data provided by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute.
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