Kathrine Frich
Moscow has remained a central pillar of New Delhi’s defense planning.
Russia and India have spent decades building one of the world’s most enduring strategic partnerships, spanning energy, weapons development and long-term military cooperation.
Despite India’s growing ties with Western suppliers, Moscow has remained a central pillar of New Delhi’s defense planning.
As Russia looks to secure its position amid mounting economic and political pressure, that relationship appears to be entering a new phase.
Offer to India
Russia is offering India access to its new S-350 air defense system, including a full transfer of technology, according to the Ukrainian outlet United24 Media.
The proposed deal would cover not only delivery of the system itself but also the sharing of technical knowledge and production methods.
If completed, India would become the first foreign country to operate the S-350, which has only recently entered service with Russian forces.
The S-350 is among the newest air defense platforms in Russia’s arsenal and has not previously been exported.
Why India
India is one of the world’s largest arms importers and has long relied on Russian equipment for key parts of its military.
While New Delhi has increasingly turned to Western systems in recent years, including French-made fighter jets, it continues to cooperate closely with Moscow on air defense.
India already operates Russian S-400 systems, which Indian military leaders have publicly praised.
Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, chief of the Indian Air Force, described the S-400s as “game changers” following Operation Sindoor.
Russian officials are presenting the S-350 as a complementary layer to the longer-range S-400 systems already deployed.
System details
Much about the S-350 remains classified.
United24 Media reported that Russian officials say the system can intercept targets at ranges starting at roughly 10–15 kilometers and extending up to 120 kilometers, depending on the missile used and the nature of the target.
The system is designed to counter aircraft, drones and missile threats, forming part of a layered air defense network.
Sources: United24 Media, WP.
