The Russian-made S-400 ‘Triumf’ is one of the world’s most advanced long-range air defence missile systems that has been developed. In 2018, India inked a contract valued at almost $5.43 billion to buy five regiments of S-400 to augment its home air defences. In response to the need for strong defence, recently, India got the fourth S-400 system, which will strengthen the Indian Air Force’s capacity to detect and neutralise enemy aircraft, drones, ballistic and cruise missiles. The induction follows on the heels of growing security threats in the region and brings India’s military modernisation and preparedness efforts to the fore. While referring to the layered air-defence system, the official government statements have accentuated the need for it in order to maintain national security.
Key Highlights of India Receives Fourth S-400 Air Defence System
- India has welcomed the Russian S-400 Triumf’s fourth regiment.
- The S-400 system is reckoned one of the top combat systems of surface-to-air missile defence systems in the world.
- India signed the S-400 Deal in October 2018 with Russia.
- The entire deal is estimated to be worth approximately $5.43 billion.
- The Russian S-400 system is mainly operated in India by the Indian Air Force.
- The system can be used for detecting and destroying aircraft, drones, cruise missiles and ballistic missiles.
- The range of action for engagement of the target is 400km.
- S-400 is part of the integrated air defence system that will comprise an integral part of India’s air defence system, according to official PIB information.
- Earlier versions of S-400 have already been deployed in dynamic areas of the country by India.
- This is expected to bolster the air defence in the western part, and the fourth regiment is anticipated to advance India’s defence capabilities in this regard.
- India is set to conduct the delivery of the fifth (and final) regiment of the S-400 missile system in the near future to the country.
- The Defence Acquisition Council has also given its nod to the other proposals pertaining to procuring S-400 armament and enhancing the capabilities of the existing system.
PYQs Related to Defence Systems and Missiles
| Exam Name | Year | Question | Options | Answer |
| UPSC CDS | 2021 | India procured the S-400 missile defence system from which country? | A. USA B. France C. Russia D. Israel | C. Russia |
| SSC CGL | 2022 | Which Indian force operates the S-400 air defence system? | A. Indian Navy B. Indian Air Force C. Indian Army D. Coast Guard | B. Indian Air Force |
| AFCAT | 2021 | What is the approximate maximum strike range of the S-400 system? | A. 100 km B. 200 km C. 400 km D. 600 km | C. 400 km |
| UPSC Prelims | 2020 | The CAATSA sanctions law belongs to which country? | A. China B. Russia C. United States D. Germany | C. United States |
| State PSC | 2023 | The S-400 Triumf is primarily a/an: | A. Fighter aircraft B. Ballistic missile C. Air defence missile system D. Submarine radar | C. Air defence missile system |
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Conclusion
The fourth regiment of S-400 Triumf is another significant measure to enhance India’s defence preparedness and its air security architecture. The long-range aerial combat capability in India against modern ballistic missile attacks and foreign planes will receive a boost from the advanced system. The Government’s official release has pointed to the significance of an integrated air defence network to protect national interests and strategic assets. The development also brings to light India’s close defence ties with Russia. The acquisition of such systems, such as the S-400, plays a crucial role in ensuring the security of the Indian subcontinent and military deterrence as India reinforces the modernisation of its armed forces.
