Russia has officially deployed its most advanced air defence system, the S-500 Prometheus, capable of neutralising stealth aircraft as well as threats originating from space. According to the Russian Ministry of Defence, the country’s armed forces have successfully operationalised the first regiment of this missile system, tasked with protecting Moscow and key industrial regions. The S-500 can detect and destroy enemy targets at altitudes of up to 200 kilometres, including intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), hypersonic missiles, and low-earth-orbit satellites, with speeds of up to 7 kilometres per second.
In the wake of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s recent visit to India, high-level discussions have commenced regarding the potential export of the S-500 system to India. After fulfilling its own defence requirements, Russia is considering India as the first foreign partner to acquire this ultra-advanced technology. Discussions are reportedly extending beyond the purchase of missiles to include the local production of components in India. Currently, even China does not possess this level of missile defence technology, giving India a potential strategic edge.
#Russia has offered the joint production of S-500 Prometheus missile system to India. pic.twitter.com/72IOcRhGup
— News IADN (@NewsIADN) May 12, 2025
The S-500 system is expected to significantly enhance India’s ability to counter hypersonic missile threats from Pakistan and China. The Indian Air Force has shown strong interest in the system, especially after the performance of the S-400 during Operation Sindoor. Defence experts, however, caution that the agreement may take time to materialise, with deliveries likely by 2030, as Russia prioritises its own defence needs.
Acquiring the S-500 would mark a significant milestone in India-Russia defence cooperation, further strengthening the strategic partnership established through earlier agreements such as the S-400 deal. The system’s induction is seen as a step toward bolstering India’s technological and strategic capabilities along its borders.