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India's fourth S-400 unit shipped; five more regiments cleared for purchase and delivery planned through 2026
India’s fourth S-400 Triumf air defence system has been shipped from Russia after pre-dispatch inspection, with arrival targeted around mid-May 2026. In March 2026, India cleared five additional S-400 systems, taking total holdings to 10 regiments. Russian officials say remaining deliveries are on schedule, with deployments planned in Rajasthan and a November deadline for the original-contract final regiment.
Why It Matters
The development marks a significant expansion of India’s air defence capabilities and continues the broader defence partnership with Russia, while flagging how CAATSA-related concerns are being navigated for future purchases.
Timeline
4 Events
Fourth S-400 unit shipped; three delivered; mid-May arrival expected; fifth by November
April 28, 2026
The fourth S-400 system was shipped from Russia after pre-dispatch inspection earlier in April 2026. Three have been delivered and inducted into the IAF. The fourth unit's delivery has been delayed by over three years due to supply-chain disruptions from the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The fourth system is expected to be deployed in the Rajasthan sector. The fifth and final S-400 regiment under the original contract is expected by November. The fourth system is expected to arrive around mid-May 2026, and deliveries of the remaining two systems are on schedule.
Remaining deliveries on schedule; personnel trained
April 16, 2026
Russian Ambassador to India Denis Alipov said deliveries of the remaining two S-400 systems are on schedule, with a mutually agreed timetable. Russia has trained Indian personnel to operate the systems.
DAC clears five additional S-400 systems
March 2026
In March 2026, the Defence Acquisition Council cleared procurement of five additional S-400 systems from Russia, taking India's total holding to 10 regiments. The fresh order is expected to face no CAATSA complications as it will be treated as a follow-on to the existing contract.
India–Russia sign five S-400 regiments agreement
October 2018
India and Russia signed an agreement for five S-400 regiments costing around Rs 40,000 crore during President Vladimir Putin's visit to New Delhi.