In a significant enhancement of India's air defence capabilities, the fourth squadron of the S-400 air defence missile system has arrived at an Indian port. Sources confirmed to The Tribune that the first consignment reached on Monday, with the remaining components expected in the coming days. The system, comprising multiple missiles, launchers, sensors, and radars, is being transported from Russia in phases.
Deployment and Strategic Importance
Once assembled, the S-400 squadron will be deployed by the Indian Air Force in a designated operational area. This delivery is part of a USD 5.4 billion contract signed in 2018, under which India is to acquire five S-400 squadrons from Russia. Three squadrons were delivered two years ago, while the remaining two faced delays due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.
The S-400 system demonstrated its effectiveness during Operation Sindoor in May 2025, intercepting Pakistani drones and cruise missiles. In February, the Indian Air Force released a video showcasing the S-400 in action, highlighting what it called the 'longest-ever air kill' in military history—a high-value aircraft struck at a range exceeding 300 km.
Fifth Squadron and Future Plans
The fifth and final S-400 squadron is expected to reach India by the end of this year. Drawing lessons from Operation Sindoor, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) approved the procurement of five additional Russian-origin air defence systems in March. The Defence Acquisition Council cleared the proposal at its March meeting. Sources indicate that the five additional S-400 systems are expected to cost USD 6.1 billion.
The S-400 is designed to engage aerial targets, including those with stealth capabilities, at ranges of up to 400 km. It can also intercept ballistic missiles and hypersonic targets. Compared to its predecessor, the S-300, the S-400 has a firing rate that is 2.5 times faster.
Broader Air Defence Strategy
In March, the MoD stated that the S-400 system will counter enemy long-range air threats targeting vital areas, while unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs) will enable offensive counter-air and coordinated operations, along with stealth intelligence and surveillance. This expansion is part of a broader strategy announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Independence Day 2025 to create a near-seamless kinetic and electronic shield across India's most vulnerable borders.
India is also working on an indigenous programme, codenamed Project Kusha, to develop its own air defence systems capable of engaging enemy drones at ranges similar to the Russian system. This dual approach of acquiring advanced foreign systems while fostering domestic development underscores India's commitment to strengthening its national security.
