Source : INDIA TODAY NEWS
India is set to receive the fourth squadron of the Russian-made S-400 air defence system in the coming weeks, with shipments of its components having begun sailing from Russia last week, sources told India Today.
The delivery is expected around May, coinciding with the anniversary of Operation Sindoor, during which the system was deployed successfully. The fourth squadron is likely to be installed along the western front, while the final batch of the S-400 system is expected later this year.
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In 2018, India signed a deal worth approximately Rs 35,000 crore with Russia for five squadrons of the S-400 system, which has played a crucial role in safeguarding India’s strategic locations.
S-400 SYSTEM: STRATEGIC ASSETS FOR INDIA
India has already received and deployed three squadrons so far.
One of the three squadrons has been strategically deployed to protect the Siliguri Corridor, a vital passage that connects India’s northeastern states with the rest of the country.
Another squadron has been stationed in the Pathankot region to strengthen the defence of Jammu & Kashmir and Punjab, providing security against potential aerial threats from both China and Pakistan.
The third squadron has been deployed along India’s western border, ensuring protection for key locations in Rajasthan and Gujarat from enemy attacks.
These S-400 squadrons remained crucial during Operation Sindoor, when India countered Pakistani missiles effectively along with the indigenous air defence systems.
DAC OKAYS 5 MORE S-400S
On March 27, 2026, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, approved the procurement of five additional Russian S-400 air defence systems to boost national security.
This purchase is part of a larger Rs 2.38 lakh crore package to strengthen the armed forces and augment their long-range air defence capabilities.
These new units are intended to enhance the IAF’s ability to track and neutralise hostile aircraft, drones, and missiles. Following the escalation of border tensions with China in 2020, India has been enhancing its air defence capabilities to counter emerging threats.
CAPABILITIES OF S-400 SYSTEM
Each S-400 squadron consists of 16 vehicles, including launchers, radar units, control centres, and technical support vehicles. This advanced air defence system can track aerial threats from up to 600 km.
The S-400 is equipped with four types of missiles, capable of neutralising targets at ranges of up to 400 km.
It is designed to intercept and destroy enemy fighter jets, ballistic missiles, and even small drones, making it one of the most formidable air defence systems in India’s arsenal.
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SOURCE :- TIMES OF INDIA
