India has taken a big step to further strengthen its air defense capability. The Defense Ministry has approved the purchase of additional 5 S-400 air defense systems from Russia. The decision is expected to significantly enhance the country’s anti-missile capability, especially amid security threats emanating from China and Pakistan. The S-400, known as the ‘Triumph’ system, is one of the world’s most advanced surface-to-air defense systems. It is capable of engaging air targets, such as fighter jets, drones and ballistic missiles, at ranges of more than 400 kilometers.
India had signed an agreement with Russia in 2018 to buy 5 S-400 squadrons worth about $5.43 billion, the delivery of which will start from 2021. Now with the inclusion of 5 additional units, their total number will increase to 10, which will further strengthen the security coverage in the northern border areas of the country and the Indian Ocean region. These systems will be supplied by Russia’s state-owned Rosoboronexport and are likely to be completed in a phased manner over the next few years.
According to defense officials, this procurement is being done while maintaining a balance with the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative. Indigenous systems such as Akash-NG and Project Kusha are under development, but the S-400 will remain an important interim solution until they are fully ready.
The S-400 system is capable of simultaneously tracking up to 300 targets and intercepting them at different distances. It uses 40N6 missiles for long range and 9M96 missiles for short range, which provides it with multi-layered protection. This will be combined with India’s existing defense systems such as indigenous radars and MRSAM to create a strong network based air defense grid.
However, due to the fear of America’s CAATSA sanctions and the Ukraine war, there remains global pressure on Russia. Despite this, defense cooperation between India and Russia remains strong. India has already obtained exemption from CAATSA citing the S-400 as essential for national security, and this stance may be repeated this time too.
This purchase is considered very important in view of the increasing tension and air activities on the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China. The Indian Air Force is the major user of the system, expecting to have it fully operational by 2028. With this new decision, India’s air defense system will be further strengthened, due to which a major change can be seen in the regional balance of power.
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