New Delhi: India has shown strong interest in acquiring Russia’s S-500 Triumfator-M (Prometheus) air defence system, although no formal purchase decision has been finalized as of early December 2025.
Following the S-400’s proven effectiveness during Operation Sindoor in May 2025, India is exploring ways to expand its air defence capabilities. This includes both additional S-400 squadrons and the more advanced S-500 system, which provides extended range, hypersonic interception, and the ability to engage near-space threats.
Formal discussions on this potential acquisition are expected during Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to New Delhi on December 4–5, 2025. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed that major defence agreements, including S-400 and S-500 systems, are key agenda items.
The S-500, formally designated 55R6M Triumfator-M, can intercept hypersonic missiles, ballistic targets in near-space, and simultaneously engage up to 10 threats using advanced 77N6 hit-to-kill interceptors. Inducted into Russian service in 2021, it represents a generational leap in air and missile defence capabilities. India’s pursuit of the S-500 could position it as the system’s first foreign buyer, leveraging strategic trust built through joint projects like BrahMos.
Reports indicate India may also request five additional S-400 squadrons with missile replenishments valued at approximately ₹10,000 crore, alongside discussions on Su-57 fighter jets, highlighting the breadth of Indo-Russian defence collaboration.
However, challenges remain. US CAATSA sanctions and Russia’s export restrictions on the S-500 due to nuclear integration could delay procurement by several years. Nonetheless, Operation Sindoor’s validation of Russian systems reinforces India’s case for diversifying beyond Western suppliers.
Acquiring the S-500 would significantly strengthen India’s air and missile defence architecture, complementing indigenous initiatives like Project Kusha, and addressing gaps in hypersonic and space defence capabilities. The upcoming Modi-Putin summit is therefore seen as a pivotal moment for shaping India’s regional strategic posture.
