Russia’s deployment of S-400 Triumf air defence missile systems to India is “proceeding well,” according to Russian Ambassador Denis Alipov.

The envoy’s remarks came amid reservations in New Delhi over possible delays in Russia’s supply of major military gear to India in light of its military invasion of Ukraine.

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“The best-of-a-kind S-400 systems delivery is proceeding well according to the schedule,” Alipov claimed.

The ambassador made the remarks in a foreword to the Russia Digest magazine commemorating the 75th anniversary of India-Russia diplomatic ties.

“Today’s Russia-India multidimensional cooperation is one of the world’s most elaborate ones,” he added.

In the article, Alipov also stated that Russia and India strive to successfully implement major programmes that distinguish their partnership.

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In this regard, he mentioned the Kudankulam nuclear power plant project in Tamil Nadu, as well as several ambitious defence collaboration initiatives under the “Make in India” and “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliance India) efforts.

Alipov mentioned a joint project for the production of AK-203 rifles, combat aviation, and the fabrication of main battle tanks, as well as frigates, submarines, Brahmos supersonic missiles, and other missile programmes.

Russia began supplying the first regiment of S-400 missile systems in December of last year, and the second regiment in April.

The missile system has been deployed in such a way that it can cover parts of the northern border with China as well as the border with Pakistan.

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In March, Russia stated that the Western sanctions against it will have no effect on the supply of S-400 missile systems to India.

Following Russia’s armed invasion of Ukraine, Western countries slapped harsh sanctions on the country.

Despite a caution from the Donald Trump administration that proceeding with the transaction could result in US sanctions, India struck a $5 billion deal with Russia in October 2018 to purchase five S-400 air defence missile systems.

Russia has been a significant supplier of military equipment to India. In light of the Western sanctions against Moscow, the two nations have been discussing what kind of payment systems they can use.

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Unlike many other major powers, India has yet to directly denounce Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and has abstained from voting on UN platforms criticizing Russian aggression.

India has been pushing for a diplomatic and conversational solution to the problem.