India’s recent air defence performance has made headlines—especially after Operation Sindoor, where Indian airstrikes hit terrorist bases in Pakistan, prompting a retaliatory wave of missile and drone attacks from across the border. But here’s the twist: India’s S-400 air defence system played a starring role in neutralizing those threats.

That success has opened the door to a new question—is Russia giving S-500 to India through a joint production agreement? With talks intensifying, it looks like the India-Russia S-500 joint production deal could be a reality soon.

Since S400 is already proven an impenetrable line of defence for Indians, what capabilities do S500 come with? In this blog, we’ll see how the two fare against one another.

S-400 vs S-500 Range: What India’s New Missile System Offers

The S-400 is already one of the most advanced missile defence systems in the world, and India is among a few countries that have it. But now, Russia is offering joint production of the S-500—a more advanced system that’s designed to outclass the S-400 in almost every way.

While S400 can engage targets up to 400 km away, from fighter jets to ballistic missiles, S500 pushes the limit to 600 km and brings enhanced capabilities, especially in taking down faster and more advanced threats, including ballistic missiles.

How many targets can S400 and S500 Accurately handle?

• S-400: Can track 80 targets and engage six types at once.
• S-500: Levels up with the ability to track 100 targets and tackle intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) and hypersonic weapons—something the S-400 can’t quite handle.

What is the flying speed of S400 and S500 Missiles?

• S-400: Uses a mix of missiles that can intercept threats flying at Mach 14 (that’s 14 times the speed of sound).
• S-500: Comes with missiles like the 40N6E, capable of reaching Mach 20 and even taking out satellites or threats in low Earth orbit. That’s a whole new level of air and space defence.

Is S500 Hypersonic and Suited for Space Defence?

• S-400: Great for most threats but not designed for hypersonics or space-based attacks.
• S-500: Built specifically to deal with hypersonic missiles and objects in space. Think of it as the next-gen shield against future warfare.

Also Read: Operation Sindoor: IAF Dismantled Chinese-Pak Defence Grid in 23 Minutes

S-500 Deployment in Russia & Prospects for S500 Joint Production in India

• S-400: Already in use in India, China, Turkey, and a few others. Battle-tested and integrated.
• S-500: Still in the final stages of development, but expected to be fully operational soon. It’s designed to either replace or enhance the S-400 depending on strategic needs.

Comparing S400 and S500 Cost and Accessibility

• S-400: More affordable and already in service—making it a great value-for-money system.
• S-500: Will come with a higher price tag, but offers long-term value thanks to its ability to defend against future threats, including those from space.

Will India Go for S500 Joint Production with Russia?

With the S-400 proving its worth during recent conflicts, the idea of investing in the more advanced S-500 seems like a logical next step. The offer from Russia for joint production will also give India access to technology and boost to local manufacturing—both big wins for India’s defence ecosystem.

So without a doubt, India should go for it. At the same time, it would be interesting to see how USA counters this move by Russia? Will they offer more concessions for India or try to restrict this deal via CAATSA.