India is in talks with Russia to acquire five additional battalions of S-400 air defense missile systems, which could be part of the agenda for Russian President Vladimir Putin's upcoming visit to Delhi in December, according to the Hindustan Times, citing military sources. The decision to expand the procurement is prompted by the high effectiveness of the systems already delivered, demonstrated during the recent Operation Sindoor.

According to the publication, Indian authorities are considering expanding the 2018 contract, under which Russia committed to supplying five battalions for $5,43 billion, despite threats of US sanctions under the CAATSA Act. Three battalions have already been delivered, and the final two are expected in 2026. Negotiations for new deliveries are underway following the successful use of S-400s against the Pakistani Air Force on May 10, when the systems prevented the enemy from crossing the Indus River eastward.

"The S-400s ensured that the Pakistani Air Force did not fly east of the Indus on May 10 during Operation Sindur," — the material notes.

Indian military sources stress that the additional divisions will strengthen the country's defences, especially in the face of regional threats.