India has officially cleared the acquisition of 288 S-400 surface-to-air missiles from Russia, as reported by Hindustan Times. This decision was made by the Defense Acquisition Council, which also stated that the Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) translates to a $1.1 billion investment, signaling India's commitment to enhancing its air defense capabilities. The approval underscores the ongoing military cooperation between India and Russia, despite potential regional and international scrutiny.

In conjunction with the S-400 procurement, India’s Defense Ministry has also announced a broader modernization plan worth $39 billion. While the specific mention of the S-400 missiles wasn't included in the official statement, the proposed acquisitions encompass various military assets including advanced combat missiles, Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft, and Rafale jets. This indicates a strategic approach to significantly bolster India's military preparedness amid evolving security dynamics in the region.

The move for these missiles is part of India’s larger goal of achieving self-reliance in defense manufacturing and operational efficiency. Under the leadership of Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, the Defense Acquisition Council aims to empower the Indian armed forces to engage more effectively with growing threats in their vicinity. This procurement is expected to enhance India's air defense network, a crucial component of its national security strategy.