India has received the fourth squadron of the Russian-origin S-400 Triumf air defence system, known in Indian service as “Sudarshan,” marking a significant enhancement of the country’s long-range air defence architecture. The delivery, made under the $5.43 billion India–Russia agreement signed in 2018, comes at a time when New Delhi is accelerating efforts to strengthen its multi-layered air and missile defence network amid evolving regional security challenges.
The arrival of this squadron is particularly noteworthy as the S-400 system demonstrated its operational value during Operation Sindoor in 2025. According to defence sources, the system played a critical role in safeguarding Indian airspace and contributed significantly to neutralising aerial threats. Reports have highlighted that the S-400 achieved one of the longest recorded surface-to-air engagements by targeting a high-value Pakistani airborne warning and control system (AWACS) aircraft at a distance exceeding 300 kilometres.
Widely regarded as one of the world’s most capable long-range air defence systems, the S-400 can detect, track and engage multiple aerial targets, including fighter aircraft, cruise missiles, drones and certain ballistic missile threats, at ranges of up to 400 kilometres. Each squadron comprises advanced surveillance and engagement radars, command-and-control elements and a large inventory of interceptor missiles, enabling comprehensive area defence against complex air threats.
The first three S-400 squadrons have already been deployed in strategically important sectors covering India’s western and northern frontiers, enhancing protection against potential threats from both Pakistan and China. The induction of the fourth unit is expected to further expand coverage and strengthen operational readiness across critical theatres.
The fifth and final squadron under the original contract is expected to arrive in the coming months, with Indian Air Force officials indicating that all contracted systems should be delivered by late 2026. Meanwhile, India is pursuing long-term self-reliance through Project Kusha, an indigenous long-range air defence programme designed to complement and eventually reduce dependence on imported systems.
The induction of the fourth S-400 squadron underscores India’s continuing focus on building a robust, layered air defence shield capable of addressing emerging aerial and missile threats while maintaining a credible strategic deterrent across the region.
contact: drrajeshjauhri@gmail.com
Dr Rajesh Jauhri is a Journalist with an experience of over 25 years in Indian and foreign media, a Social Scientist, an Ac-complished Author, a Political & Strategic Analyst, a Marksman (Rifle & Pistol), an Orator, a Thinker and an Educationist. He holds a Ph.D. degree on “Impact of colonial heritage on Indian police”. He runs an NGO dedicated to the social and eco-nomic uplift of tribal communities in MP and two decades back, he established a school in a village of Indore district, providing education and moral values to children belonging to underprivileged and minority families. Has received multiple awards in various fields.