India's air defense system is poised for a significant boost. Russia has confirmed that the fourth squadron of the S-400 long-range air defense system will arrive in India by May 2026. The final (fifth) squadron will arrive in 2027, coinciding with the anniversary of Operation Sindoor, which played a crucial role in neutralizing Pakistani aerial threats.
What is the S-400 and Why is it Important?
The S-400 (Triumf) stands among the world's most advanced surface-to-air missile systems. Known as Sudarshan Chakra in India, it is part of a multi-layer air defense that can intercept enemy fighter jets, cruise missiles, ballistic missiles, and drones.
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Tracking Range: Can detect targets up to 600 km away.
Strike Range: Covers up to 400 km (various missiles: 40N6 - 400 km, 48N6 - 250 km, 9M96E2 - 120 km).
Simultaneous Capacity: Can track 100 targets and engage 6-36 simultaneously.
Mobile System: Mounted on trucks, deployable in 5-10 minutes.
Radar and Command: Features long-range surveillance radar (91N6E Big Bird), engagement radar (92N6E Grave Stone), and mobile launcher.
Deal Details
Signed: In October 2018, a deal for 5 S-400 regimental sets (squadrons) was signed between India and Russia.
Cost: Approximately ₹40,000 crores (US$5.43 billion).
Delivery Status
The first three squadrons are already delivered and operational (since 2021).
Fourth: By May 2026.
Fifth: By 2027.
Reason for Delay: The Russia-Ukraine conflict impacted Russian production and supply chains, but delivery is now accelerating.
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Role of S-400 in Operation Sindoor
In May 2025, Operation Sindoor was a significant military maneuver by India, a response to the April 2025 Pahalgam terrorist attack (26 civilians killed). India hit 9 terrorist sites in Pakistan.
The S-400 successfully intercepted Pakistani fighter jets, drones, and missiles. The IAF Chief noted that the S-400 was crucial in downing 5 Pakistani jets and a large aircraft (AEW&C) from 300 km away. This system forms the outer layer of India's multi-tier defense, complemented by indigenous systems like Akash and MR-SAM. S-400 effectively neutralized Pakistani aerial attempts and demonstrated Indian deterrence.
Source: aajtak
Where Are the S-400s Deployed?
First: Operational in Punjab (since December 2021).
Second: Securing the Siliguri Corridor (a strategic narrow stretch connecting Northeast India to the mainland).
Third: Deployed in the Pathankot-Punjab sector and the western sector (Rajasthan-Gujarat).
These deployments address threats from both Pakistan and China.
Missile Refills and the Future
Post-Operation Sindoor, interceptor missile stock from the S-400 dwindled. Missile replenishments are underway from Russia, ensuring all squadrons are combat-ready. With the imminent arrival of the fourth squadron, India's air defense will be nearing completion. This system is poised to become the cornerstone of India's strategic deterrence, drawing lessons from Operation Sindoor.
