New Delhi/Moscow: On May 5, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin engaged in a telephonic conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to condemn the April 22, 2025, terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed 26 lives. Putin expressed profound condolences and reaffirmed Russia's unwavering support for India’s counter-terrorism efforts, emphasizing the need to bring the perpetrators to justice. The leaders reiterated their commitment to deepening the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between India and Russia, with Modi extending an invitation to Putin for the annual bilateral summit later this year. This dialogue coincided with a closed-door United Nations Security Council meeting to address escalating India-Pakistan tensions, where India aimed to highlight Pakistan’s role in regional terrorism.
Bolstering Defense Capabilities with Igla-S and S-400 Systems
A critical aspect of India-Russia cooperation is the enhancement of India’s defense infrastructure. Recently, India received a consignment of Russian Igla-S man-portable air-defense systems (MANPADS) and components of the S-400 Triumf missile defense system. The Igla-S, a highly advanced short-range air-defense system, is designed to counter low-flying aircraft, helicopters, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). With a range of up to 6 kilometers and an altitude capability of 3.5 kilometers, it features an infrared homing seeker and a 2.5 kg high-explosive warhead, making it effective against modern aerial threats. Its portability and rapid deployment enhance India’s ability to protect ground forces and critical infrastructure.
The S-400, a long-range surface-to-air missile system, significantly strengthens India’s aerial defense architecture. Capable of engaging targets at ranges up to 400 kilometers and altitudes up to 30 kilometers, it can neutralize aircraft, ballistic missiles, and cruise missiles. India’s acquisition of five S-400 regiments, with deliveries ongoing since 2021, has been developed with Russian technical assistance, complementing indigenous interception platforms. These systems provide robust defense against Pakistan’s intensified military activities, including naval drills, ceasefire violations along the Line of Control, and test launches of Abdali-II and FATAH missiles, ensuring India’s ability to counter short- and medium-range threats effectively.
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