India Eyes Additional S-400 Air Defence Systems From Russia Amid Heightened Security Threats

New Delhi: India is contemplating the acquisition of two more squadrons of S-400 long-range surface-to-air missile systems from Russia, following the system's exceptional performance during Operation Sindoor. The S-400 systems have strengthened India's air defence capabilities, particularly against aerial threats from Pakistan and China. The defence sources revealed that the impressive performance of the S-400 systems during the recent conflict with Pakistan has prompted India to consider purchasing additional units.

According to officials, the S-400 systems have showcased their prowess in detecting and neutralising hostile aircraft, drones, and missiles. During Operation Sindoor, the S-400 systems successfully took out multiple Pakistan Air Force fighters and airborne early warning aircraft, showcasing their effectiveness in air defence. Notably, the S-400 systems achieved a record-breaking feat by hitting an aircraft at a range of over 300 km. 

The officials added that, given the security threats posed by China and Pakistan, India is seeking to further strengthen its air defence capabilities. The Indian side has expressed interest in acquiring the S-500 air defence system, which boasts a longer range than the S-400. However, the sale of S-500 systems would require approval from the top Russian leadership. India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is also working on an indigenous long-range surface-to-air missile (LRSAM) programme, codenamed Project Kusha, in collaboration with Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited and Bharat Dynamics Limited.

Russia To Deliver Remaining Two S-400 Squadrons

India had signed a $5.43 billion deal with Russia in 2018 to acquire five S-400 squadrons, with the first unit arriving in 2021. Despite logistical and geopolitical challenges, including the Russia-Ukraine conflict, multiple regiments have been strategically positioned across the country. 

The defence officials stated that while three squadrons have already been delivered and operationally deployed, the delivery of the remaining two squadrons was delayed due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The Russian side has assured India that the fourth and fifth squadrons will be delivered by 2026-27. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh discussed the matter with his Russian counterpart, Andrey Belousov, on the sidelines of the SCO defence ministers' meet at Qingdao in China, and received assurances that the schedule would not be extended further.

India’s ‘Sudarshan Chakra’ Missile System

India's defence capabilities received a major boost with the induction of the S-400 Triumf missile defence system, designed and manufactured by Russia's Almaz-Antey. The S-400, officially named ‘Sudarshan Chakra’ in Indian service, is one of the most advanced air defence systems in the world, capable of engaging multiple aerial targets simultaneously.

According to officials, the S-400 can detect targets up to 600 km away and engage them at ranges of up to 400 km, with a maximum altitude of 30 km. It can track and engage up to 80 targets simultaneously, guiding 72-160 missiles at once, with a response time of 9-10 seconds.

The S-400 air defence system uses four types of missiles with different ranges, including the 40N6E with a range of 400 km, 48N6DM/48N6E3 with a range of 250 km, and 9M96E2 with a range of 120 km. It is highly mobile, with components mounted on wheeled vehicles, allowing for quick deployment in just 5-10 minutes.

Strategic Importance For India

The S-400 system has enhanced India's air defence capabilities, providing a powerful shield against diverse airborne attacks. Its deployment near border zones and central regions allows coverage of both western and eastern frontiers, adding a layer to India's air defence network. According to defence officials, the system's presence complicates any adversary's aerial campaign planning, allowing India to assert air dominance without crossing borders.

The S-400 system was activated during a sharp escalation with Pakistan in May this year during Operation Sindoor, successfully intercepting multiple drones and incoming projectiles over important military zones and civilian infrastructure. The use of the air defence system marked the first known operational deployment of the S-400 by Indian forces in a live combat-like environment, validating the system's performance and showing India's readiness to deploy cutting-edge defence technologies.