India's air defence network is set to become stronger with the arrival of the fourth squadron of the Russian-made S-400 air defence missile system.
The long-range missile defence system recently arrived in India and is expected to be deployed soon. Defence officials believe the induction of the new squadron will significantly enhance India's ability to detect and destroy aerial threats, including fighter jets, drones, cruise missiles and ballistic missiles.
India receives fourth S-400 Squadron
According to defence sources, the fourth squadron of the S-400 air defence system has been delivered to India from Russia via a ship. The system is expected to be deployed in a strategic location in the near future. The fifth and final squadron under the original deal is likely to arrive in India within the next few months.
S-400 played important role during 'Operation Sindoor'
The S-400 air defence system reportedly played a crucial role during Operation Sindoor by helping neutralise missile threats and strengthening India's air defence shield. Following its performance, the Defence Acquisition Council has approved a proposal to procure five additional S-400 squadrons to further enhance the country's defence capabilities.
India's indigenous Air Defence System
Along with importing advanced defence systems, India is focusing on self-reliance in defence technology. Under "Project Kusha," India is developing an indigenous long-range air defence system capable of intercepting enemy aircraft, drones and missiles at multiple ranges.
The project is being developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in partnership with Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and Solar Defence, a subsidiary of Solar Industries. The goal is to create an Indian system with capabilities comparable to advanced global air defence platforms.
India-Russia signed USD 5 billion deal
India signed a deal worth around USD 5 billion with Russia in October 2018 for the purchase of five S-400 squadrons. While the first three squadrons were delivered earlier, the remaining deliveries were delayed due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
With the arrival of the fourth squadron, the final delivery is expected to be completed by November, according to defence sources.
Where are India's existing S-400 systems deployed?
India has already deployed three S-400 squadrons in strategically important sectors along its borders. These include:
- Punjab-Jammu sector
- Rajasthan-Gujarat sector
- Sikkim sector
These deployments provide a strong air defence shield along India's western and northern frontiers.
How powerful is the S-400 air defence system?
The S-400 is considered one of the world's most advanced air defence systems. A standard squadron typically consists of 8 to 12 mobile launcher vehicles, with each launcher carrying four missiles.
Key capabilities of the S-400 include:
- Detection range of up to 600 km
- Ability to engage multiple targets simultaneously
- Can intercept fighter aircraft, drones, cruise missiles and ballistic missiles
- Highly mobile and deployable in different terrains
- Provides layered air defence against long-range threats
A fully operational squadron can have up to 48 missiles ready for launch at a time, while additional support vehicles allow rapid reloading when required.
Why the arrival of the fourth Squadron Matters
The induction of the fourth S-400 squadron comes at a time when India is strengthening its air defence network across sensitive border regions. The system's advanced radar and interception capabilities are expected to improve India's preparedness against a wide range of aerial threats while complementing future indigenous projects such as Project Kusha.
Read Also: What is anti-ballistic missile system India and Israel are jointly developing? Can shoot down advanced missiles using…; know how this ultra-modern system works