India is planning to procure five additional squadrons of the S-400 Sudarshan air defence missile system from Russia, following its reported success during Operation Sindoor last year, reported ANI.The Defence Ministry is expected to soon take up the Indian Air Force’s proposal to acquire the additional five squadrons. The systems are planned to be deployed along both the eastern and western fronts.
Sources, as per ANI, added that the Indian Air Force is also looking to procure missiles in significant numbers to strengthen its air defence capabilities, with discussions already underway with the Russian side and a tender expected to be reissued soon.
India and Russia had signed a $5.5 billion deal in 2018 for five squadrons of the S-400 system. Of these, three have been inducted and operationalised, while India is also seeking delivery of the remaining two squadrons and exploring the addition of more units to its inventory. Moscow is expected to deliver units of the final two S-400 systems to India in 2026 and 2027.Also Read: US aircraft leave Spain after government says bases cannot be used for Iran attacksAccording to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, Russia accounted for 36% of India’s arms imports between 2020-2024, with France providing 33% and Israel 13%.What is S-400The S-400 air defence missile system, known in Indian service as ‘Sudarshan Chakra’, is one of the most advanced long-range air defence platforms in the world. The name is derived from the divine disc used by Lord Vishnu in Hindu mythology.Built by Russia and integrated into India’s strategic air defence command, the system is designed to identify and engage a wide range of airborne threats, including stealth aircraft, cruise missiles, drones and tactical ballistic missiles.The S-400 is capable of tracking targets at a distance of up to 600 km and intercepting them up to 400 km away.Each S-400 squadron consists of two batteries, with each battery comprising six launchers, upgraded radar systems and a control centre. A single battery can support up to 128 missiles.Also Read: Behind the optics: Modi-Putin hug, S-400 push, Su-57 debate—what really happened at India-Russia summitThe system is equipped with multiple types of missiles, enabling layered defence against threats at varying ranges and altitudes. Its phased array radars and electronic warfare capabilities enhance its effectiveness, particularly in contested environments.
