In a transformative initiative aimed at enhancing India’s defense self-reliance, the Ministry of Defence has announced the establishment of a maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility for the S-400 air defense system, now designated as ‘Sudarshan Chakra.’ This facility will be developed in partnership with Russia’s Almaz-Antey, the system’s original manufacturer.
The move comes on the heels of the S-400’s essential performance during Operation Sindoor, which was India’s military response to a terrorist attack on tourists in Pahalgam. The operation saw the S-400 system effectively intercepting and neutralizing threats during Pakistan’s attempted drone and missile strikes against over 15 Indian cities on the night of May 7-8, thereby safeguarding critical military installations in the northern and western regions.
A senior official from the Defence Ministry stated that the proposal for the MRO facility had been under review for an extended period, but the recent events of Operation Sindoor significantly expedited its approval. The chosen Indian firm underwent extensive security clearance and capability assessments before being selected. Additionally, the rules of engagement for this facility have been prepared, with an official announcement anticipated in the near future.
“This is a significant advancement for our armed forces,” the official remarked. “The S-400’s demonstrated capability during Operation Sindoor received wide acknowledgment, and establishing a domestic maintenance facility will ensure we maintain a state of operational readiness while lowering our reliance on foreign assistance.”
Another official described the decision as a “landmark achievement” in the realm of India-Russia military technical cooperation. He noted that this aligns well with the government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative and serves to address challenges posed by international sanctions and disruptions in global supply chains.
India had previously entered into a procurement agreement with Russia for five S-400 systems, of which three have already been delivered. During a meeting of Defence Ministers from the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in China, Russian Defence Minister Andrey Belousov confirmed that the final two systems are scheduled for delivery in 2026 and 2027.
The S-400 ‘Sudarshan Chakra,’ named after a celestial weapon associated with Lord Vishnu, boasts the capability to engage aerial threats at distances of up to 400 kilometers. Its integration into India’s defense framework represents a pivotal advancement in fortifying the nation’s aerial defense against evolving challenges.
