‘Among the best in world’: PM Modi’s Russia visit expedites deliveries of 120 super long-range surface-to-air missiles; to give edge over Pakistan – Times of India

India is set to receive a shipment of 120 highly advanced surface-to-air missiles from Russia, following Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s recent visit to Moscow for the annual summit. These missiles will significantly enhance India’s military capabilities and provide an advantage over Pakistan.
The 40N6 missiles are designed to strike airborne posts, bombers and hypersonic cruise and ballistic missiles, according to an ET report.The decision to procure these long-range missiles was made in the aftermath of the Balakot air strike, which took place on February 26, 2019.
During this operation, Indian Mirage 2000 fighter jets crossed the Line of Control (LoC) and “incinerated the Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camp in Balakot, Pakistan.” The air strike was conducted in response to the Pulwama attack.
Various factors, including the Covid pandemic and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, may have contributed to the delay in the supply of these missiles. However, Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Moscow provided the necessary political impetus to expedite the delivery of pending defense supplies, including the remaining two S-400 systems from Russia.
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According to sources, the Surface-to-Air missiles being provided by Russia are regarded as some of the most advanced in the world, with a range of approximately 400 kilometers.
An expert emphasized that Russia has consistently responded to India’s defense needs during critical times, and the acquisition of these missiles is crucial for maintaining an advantage over Pakistan.
In 2019, India and Russia entered into an agreement for the procurement of five squadrons of the advanced air defense system, which has the capability to engage targets at a distance of up to 400 kilometers.
As of now, Russia has supplied three of these air defense systems to India, which have been made operational and deployed along the country’s borders with China and Pakistan.
Initially, the delivery of the remaining two squadrons was expected to be completed by 2024. However, delays have arisen due to Russia’s internal challenges and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.