Advanced Russian-made air defence system arrives after delivery delays, while India pushes ahead with indigenous Project Kusha
India has received the fourth squadron of the S-400 Triumf air defence system from Russia, providing a significant boost to the country’s long-range air defence capabilities. Known as the Sudarshan air defence system in Indian service, the latest squadron arrived by sea a few days ago and is expected to be deployed in an operational sector soon, according to defence sources.
The delivery marks another milestone in the implementation of the 2018 agreement between India and Russia for the procurement of five S-400 squadrons. Three squadrons are already operational and deployed across strategically important regions of the country.
Fifth squadron expected in coming months
The arrival of the fourth unit comes after delays caused by the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, which disrupted the original delivery schedule for the remaining systems.
Defence sources indicate that the fifth and final squadron under the original contract is expected to be delivered within the next few months, completing India’s planned induction of the advanced air defence platform.
Meanwhile, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has already approved the acquisition of five additional S-400 squadrons, highlighting the military’s confidence in the system’s capabilities.
Indigenous air defence programme gains momentum
Alongside the Russian systems, India is accelerating work on its indigenous long-range air defence initiative, Project Kusha. The programme aims to develop a homegrown system capable of intercepting aircraft, missiles and drones at ranges comparable to the S-400.
Indian defence manufacturer Solar Industries is among the companies participating as a development and production partner in the project.
Key role during Operation Sindoor
The S-400 system gained prominence during Operation Sindoor, where it played a major role in countering aerial threats from Pakistan. Defence sources say the platform was instrumental in achieving one of the longest recorded surface-to-air engagements by neutralising a high-value Pakistani surveillance aircraft operating at a distance of more than 300 kilometres.
The system was also extensively deployed by the Indian Air Force during the military confrontation with Pakistan between May 7 and May 10, underscoring its operational importance.
Widely regarded as Russia’s most advanced long-range surface-to-air missile defence platform, the S-400 can engage multiple aerial targets simultaneously and has a maximum interception range of up to 400 kilometres.
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