India’s five-regiment S-400 Triumf acquisition from Russia is scheduled for completion in 2026, with the fourth regiment delivered from June and the fifth expected in November, according to the supplied Sputnik report. Rosoboronexport chief Alexander Mikheev has said the programme remains on schedule despite earlier disruptions associated with the Ukraine conflict.The approximately ₹45,190-crore agreement, signed in 2018, covers five complete regimental sets. Three regiments were inducted between 2021 and 2023 and deployed across northern and eastern areas, including the Sikkim sector. Acceptance trials for the fourth regiment were completed in Russia in April 2026 before delivery began in June, while the final regiment is scheduled for November.A standard system includes the 91N6E surveillance radar, which can reportedly detect aerodynamic targets at distances of up to 570 km, the 92N6E multifunction engagement radar, 96L6E altitude detectors and as many as 12 transporter-launchers. Its missile family includes the 40N6 with a stated range of 400 km, 48N6DM at 240 km, 9M96E2 at 120 km and 9M96E at 40 km. Together, the interceptors provide different engagement layers against aircraft, cruise missiles, drones, stealth targets and ballistic-missile threats.The system is known in Indian service as Sudarshan Chakra. The supplied report states that it demonstrated operational value during Operation Sindoor by engaging hostile aircraft and missile threats. Its deployment has strengthened India’s air-defence posture along potential fronts involving Pakistan and China.India’s Defence Acquisition Council reportedly approved another five S-400 regimental sets in March 2026 as part of a larger package worth nearly ₹2.08 lakh crore. If completed, the additional purchase could take the country’s total strength to ten regiments. The DAC also sanctioned an urgent procurement of 288 missiles worth approximately ₹8,300 crore in February 2026 to replenish stocks across different range categories.India also obtained a CAATSA waiver from the United States despite earlier sanctions concerns. The waiver recognized the strategic significance of the S-400 acquisition and India’s role as a partner in balancing China.Completion of the original five-regiment order would further support integration with indigenous air-defence systems such as Akash and MRSAM under Project Kusha. Through the Indian Air Command and Control System, imported and domestic systems could exchange information and coordinate engagements. The fourth regiment’s planned deployment in Rajasthan would also add another layer to India’s western air-defence posture.
