India likely to buy more S-400 systems: Deal can also include purchase of S-500
Digital Desk
India may purchase additional S-400 missile defense systems from Russia. Deals for five such systems have already been signed, and India has already received three. The new deal will be in addition to these. According to a source at news agency PTI, negotiations on the deal could take place during Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to India in December.
This is the same defence system which had thwarted the drone and missile attacks carried out by Pakistan after Operation Sindoor by shooting them down mid-air.
India signed a $5 billion deal with Russia in October 2018. At that time, the US had warned that going ahead with the deal could lead to sanctions against India under the CAATSA Act.
India is also considering purchasing the S-500 missile system. Both the S-400 and S-500 are modern missile systems used for air defense and countering enemy air attacks.
The S-400 Triumph is Russia's most advanced missile system, launched in 2007. This system can shoot down fighter jets, ballistic and cruise missiles, drones, and even stealth aircraft. It acts as a powerful shield against a variety of airborne threats. It is considered one of the most advanced air defense systems in the world.
· The biggest feature of S-400 is its mobility. This means it can be transported anywhere by road.
· It is equipped with a 92N6E electronically steered phased array radar which can detect multiple targets from a distance of about 600 kilometers.
· It becomes ready for operation within 5 to 10 minutes of receiving the order.
· An S-400 unit can track 160 objects simultaneously. 2 missiles can be launched for one target.
· In S-400, 400 indicates the range of this system. The system India is receiving has a range of 400 kilometers. This means it can detect its target and counter-attack from 400 kilometers away. It can also attack its target at an altitude of 30 kilometers.
An S-400 squadron consists of 256 missiles. India currently has 3 squadrons, which have been deployed on different borders.
First Squadron - deployed in Punjab. India received the first squadron from Russia in 2021. This is to deter threats coming from both Pakistan and China.
Second Squadron - deployed in Sikkim (China border). India received this consignment in July 2022. From here, the Chicken Neck is also monitored.
Third Squadron - deployed on the Rajasthan-Gujarat or Punjab/Rajasthan border. India received this consignment in February 2023. This squadron strengthens the security of the western border.
At a recent press conference, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh refused to answer questions about purchasing more S-400s.
The S-400 is a good weapon system. Therefore, more such systems are needed. However, they did not want to comment further on this matter. India may consider purchasing systems based on its needs. India is also developing its own defense systems- Air Chief Marshal AP Singh