India's S-400 Triumf: A Strategic Air Defence Asset Amid Rising Tensions
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Operation Sindoor and India-Pakistan tensions highlight India's air defence capabilities. |
| Key System | S-400 Triumf (Sudarshan Chakra) - Long-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) system. |
| Developer | Almaz Central Design Bureau (Russia). |
| Capabilities | Counter stealth aircraft, cruise missiles, ballistic missiles, drones, and UAVs. |
| Squadron Composition | 2 batteries (6 launchers each), command-and-control units, radars, up to 128 missiles. |
| India's Acquisition | ₹35,000 crore deal in 2018 for five squadrons. |
| Deployment Status | Three squadrons operational as of 2025, two more expected by 2026. |
| Deployment Locations | Western front (Pakistan) and northern sector (China). |
| Tracking & Engagement | Tracks 160 targets, engages 72 targets, operates up to 30 km altitude. |
| Integration | Works with AWACS and Netra systems, enhances layered air defence network. |
| Global Operators | Russia, China, Turkey, Belarus, Algeria (unconfirmed). |
| Conflict Zone Deployment | Syria (Khmeimim Air Base, Latakia) since 2015. |