According to the statement made by the Chief of the Indian Air Force, the country will receive the last two Russian S-400 air defense missile systems in 2025. The acquisition, formalized in 2018 for a value of USD 5.43 billion, stipulated the provision of 20 systems to form five squadrons and air defense regiments. However, as of today, the ongoing war in Ukraine, along with sanctions, has caused Russia to delay completing the deliveries of these systems.
Local media revealed that the delayed delivery was largely due not only to the conflict but also to supply chain and transportation disruptions.
So far, India has received three squadrons of the air defense system, which have been activated and deployed along the borders with China and Pakistan. The first missile system unit was fully delivered in December 2021, and the third squadron of systems was received during the early months of 2023.
The S-400 Triumf is one of the most advanced air defense missile systems used by the Russian Armed Forces. Depending on the missile used, it offers medium- and long-range air defense, covering distances ranging from 120 to 400 kilometers. It entered service in 2006 and has been deployed in Russian operations in Syria and, more recently, in the war the country is waging against Ukraine.
In India’s case, the country’s Air Force operates the air defense system. Although no significant data on its deployment has been recorded, the current operational squadrons are stationed in locations near the borders with Pakistan and China to provide a deterrent capability amid the historical disputes India has with these two countries.
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