Defence Minister Rajnath Singh pushes Russia to fast-track delivery of S-400 missile systems

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh urged Russia to expedite the supply of two remaining units of S-400 Triumf surface-to-air missile systems as he held wide-ranging talks with his Russian counterpart Andrey Belousov in Moscow.

In the meeting, Singh showcased new opportunities in India for Russian defence industries in joint production of various military hardware, pointing out that India-Russia engagement is very strong, and has lived up to the "responsibilities" of a special and privileged strategic partnership.

Singh-who is on a three-day visit to Russia, voiced India's determination to extend the capabilities of its domestic defence industry across domains and industrial collaboration.

The meeting under the framework of India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military and Military Technical Cooperation was co-chaired by Singh and Belousov.

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Official sources said Singh strongly pitched for expedited delivery of the two remaining units of S-400 surface-to-air missile systems.

Russia has already completed delivery of the first three regiments of the missile systems. However, due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, there has been a delay in the supply of the remaining units.

The S-400 Triumf, also known by its NATO reporting name SA-21 Growler, is a highly advanced mobile surface-to-air missile system developed by Russia's Almaz Central Design Bureau.

Singh reiterated India's commitment towards the special and privileged strategic partnership with Russia, the defence ministry said in a statement.

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The Russian defence minister emphasised on deepening the relationship between both countries which is based on mutual trust. He also congratulated Singh on the commissioning of the Russian-manufactured guided missile frigate INS Tushil into the Indian Navy. "He further stated that the operationalisation of the Military Technical Cooperation agreement for 2021-31 will give the necessary impetus to 'Make in India'," the ministry said.

Prior to the meeting, Singh inspected a guard of honour at the Russian defence ministry.

Earlier, Singh laid a wreath at 'The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier' in Moscow to honour the memory of the Soviet soldiers killed during the Second World War.