Following the impressive battlefield performance of the S-400 Triumf air defence systems during Operation Sindoor, India is now considering expanding its missile arsenal by procuring two additional S-400 squadrons from Russia. According to a recent report by news agency ANI, the Indian defence establishment has reviewed the success of the system and is now pushing forward with plans to bolster its strategic air defence capabilities.

The S-400 missile system, designated as “Sudarshan Chakra” by the Indian armed forces, emerged as a game-changer during Operation Sindoor. During this high-intensity military engagement, the S-400 was responsible for intercepting and neutralising multiple incoming threats, including Pakistan Air Force (PAF) fighter jets, early warning aircraft, and long-range missile threats.

One of the most notable achievements reported was the system’s ability to engage and destroy an airborne target over 300 kilometres away, showcasing its long-range accuracy and rapid engagement capability. These capabilities played a crucial role in India's defensive and offensive dominance during the operation.

Indigenous Missile System Faces Delays

India’s motivation to expand its S-400 fleet is also influenced by delays in Project Kusha, the indigenous Long-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (LRSAM) programme. This programme, under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in collaboration with Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited and Bharat Dynamics Limited, was expected to provide a homegrown alternative to imported systems like the S-400.

However, the project is currently behind schedule, and full-scale deployment is unlikely in the near term. Defence analysts say that while Project Kusha holds great promise for self-reliance in missile defence, it cannot yet match the proven battlefield readiness and operational reliability of the Russian S-400 system. This reality has prompted Indian defence planners to look for a trusted interim solution, thereby leading to the consideration of additional S-400 units.

India Shows Interest in S-500 Acquisition

At the same time, India has expressed interest in acquiring the more advanced S-500 Prometey missile defence system, which surpasses the S-400 in terms of range, target engagement altitude, and interception accuracy. However, the procurement of the S-500 would require clearance at the highest level from Russian authorities, and no formal agreement has been signed yet.

The S-500 system is still in limited deployment within Russia and is not yet being offered for international sale in large quantities. India’s interest reflects its long-term vision to maintain technological superiority in regional air defence and missile interception systems, especially as both Pakistan and China continue to modernise their aerial warfare and missile strike capabilities.

Overview of India’s S-400 Procurement Deal

India originally signed a USD 5.43 billion agreement with Russia in October 2018 for the acquisition of five S-400 squadrons. The first unit was delivered in December 2021, followed by the second in April 2022, and the third in October 2023. All three have since been deployed along critical strategic fronts, covering regions adjacent to Pakistan’s western borders and China’s northern frontier.

The S-400 Triumf, which has been rechristened as Sudarshan Chakra by the Indian defence forces, has proven capable of detecting and destroying aerial threats at ranges of up to 380 kilometres. Its radar systems can simultaneously track dozens of targets, including strategic bombers, fighter jets, surveillance aircraft, cruise missiles, and drones. The system is highly mobile, allowing for rapid deployment and repositioning during live combat scenarios.

Pending Deliveries Due to Russia-Ukraine Conflict

The Russia-Ukraine conflict, however, disrupted the delivery schedule of the remaining two squadrons. According to reports, the equipment that was scheduled for delivery to India in 2024 was diverted for use by Russian forces involved in the Ukraine conflict. This caused significant concern within the Indian defence establishment, prompting discussions at diplomatic and military levels.

Recently, Russian defence authorities have reassured Indian officials that the delivery of the fourth and fifth squadrons will be completed in the next financial year, i.e., by FY 2025-26. These commitments have been made following high-level engagements between Indian and Russian defence delegations, with Moscow giving explicit assurances of no further delays.

Strategic and Tactical Importance of S-400 in Indian Context

The success of the S-400 in Operation Sindoor has reignited discussions on the need for deep layered defence mechanisms in India. The air defence grid is expected to be multi-layered, combining systems like Akash, MR-SAM, and now potentially S-500, along with existing S-400 platforms.

The S-400 expansion is not merely a tactical move—it reflects India’s broader strategy to prepare for two-front war scenarios and to ensure aerial dominance over the subcontinent. Given the continued hostilities with Pakistan and border tensions with China, enhancing long-range missile interception capability is viewed as a critical priority.

Furthermore, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has reported a high success rate and reliability of the deployed S-400 systems, boosting confidence in their potential to serve as the backbone of India’s strategic air defence. With China deploying advanced long-range missile systems, and Pakistan continuing to test nuclear-capable cruise missiles, the need for real-time interception and superior sensor technology has become more pronounced.

Future Outlook

The Indian government, while awaiting the final delivery of the pending S-400 squadrons, is expected to initiate negotiations for an additional two units. These could be delivered by late 2026 or early 2027, depending on Russian manufacturing schedules and global geopolitical stability.

Simultaneously, India will continue to invest in Project Kusha, ensuring that its long-term goal of self-reliant missile defence manufacturing remains intact. Experts suggest that once Project Kusha reaches maturity, it could potentially replace or supplement the S-400 in select theatres of operation.

In summary, India’s success with the S-400 during Operation Sindoor has re-emphasised the system’s battlefield value, leading to renewed interest in expanding its deployment. With delays in indigenous alternatives and uncertainty around advanced system approvals, the S-400 remains the pillar of India’s missile defence shield—a fact made even clearer in light of its proven role in intercepting threats from Pakistan during a live combat scenario. As geopolitical tensions in the region continue to simmer, India’s decision to reinforce its air defence grid with additional S-400 units appears to be a strategic imperative shaped by both immediate security needs and long-term defence planning.

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