India became the third country, after China and Turkey, to purchase Russian-made S-400 missile defence systems known as “Triumph.” India regards the S-400 system as critical defence equipment for ensuring its territorial integrity and protecting it from potential external assault.
Former IAF officers described the Russian-made S-400 as a “game-changer” in a war-like situation in an interview with Sputnik, noting that these systems, which can fire missiles of varying ranges, are capable of taking down fast-moving fighter jets and cruise missiles at a range of up to 400 kilometers (248.5 miles).
How Many S-400s Does India Have in Service?
In October 2018, Moscow and New Delhi agreed to a $5.43 billion deal to provide India with five squadrons of S-400 systems. As of April 29, 2023, two S-400 squadrons had been transported to India and placed in service: the first S-400 squadron arrived in December 2021, and the second battery came in April 2022.
Russia delivered the third squadron of the S-400 air defence system to India in March 2023. This S-400 squadron is stationed near the Pakistani border to combat aerial attacks on Punjab and northern Rajasthan. The delivery of the third S-400 squadron is an assurance against any attack from Pakistan for India, which is fighting two enemies on two fronts in the form of China and Pakistan.
Where are S-400 Systems Deployed?
The deployment locations of S-400 systems in India have not been publicly acknowledged, although it is presumed they are stationed at critical strategic areas around the country. According to Indian media, two S-400 squadrons have already been deployed at various sites across India, albeit there are conflicting claims regarding where the systems have been installed.
According to certain reports, one S-400 squadron has been deployed to guard the country’s border in the state of West Bengal, and another to cover the Ladakh region of the border with China. Ladakh is a distinct area of India with borders with southwestern China and Nepal. Several clashes between Chinese and Indian troops have occurred in the region, with the most recent escalation skirmish taking place in December 2022. Earlier, media sources said one regiment had been deployed near the Pakistani border to combat aircraft attacks on Punjab and northern Rajasthan.
Does China Have S-400 Missile System?
It’s worth remembering that China purchased S-400 missile systems from Russia in 2018, making it the first foreign government to obtain the upgraded Russian system. According to media sources, China’s S-400 systems are stationed in Henan’s central province and Shanghai’s port city. As in the case of India, official data does not specify the exact location of the systems.
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Also read:
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