India, Russia sign Deals For Kamov, S-400 ‘Triumf’, Stealth Vessels At Brics Summit 2016.

India has signed various defense deals with Russia at Brics summit 2016 today, including the one to buy US$5 billion worth S-400 Triumf anti aircraft weapon system.

Russia will start supplying advanced anti-aircraft defense system S-400 Triumph from 2020 to India, according to an agreement signed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin at BRICS Summit, The Financial Express reported today.

It is strategically major decision in Inter Governmental deal for the purchase of S-400 ‘Triumf’ long-range air defence missile system, which has the capability to destroy incoming hostile aircraft, missiles and even drones at ranges of up to 400 km. India and Russia have been in talks for over a year for the purchase of at least five systems of S-400.

The S-400 surface-to-air missiles would strengthen India's defenses along its borders with China and Pakistan. Also agreed were plans to build and supply stealth frigates for the Indian navy.

India has also announced that it will collaborate in setting up a joint production facility for making Kamov helicopters. Under a nearly $1 billion deal, India will replace the country’s aging Cheetah and Chetak choppers with Kamov 226t helicopter. The plan is to build at least 200 such helicopters. Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd will be the local partner of Russian Helicopters as well as state arms exporter Rosoboronexport.

Another important deal was also signed for four Admiral Grigorovich-class guided-missile stealth frigates. According to which two vessels will be purchased from Russia, while remaining two will be constructed in India with Russian collaboration. However, it has not yet been decided which Indian shipyard to select. Later, the ships are likely to be equipped with missiles manufactured by BrahMos Aerospace, a venture that India and Russia jointly own.