News Desk: India has received the fourth squadron of the Russian-made S-400 Triumf air defence missile system, significantly enhancing the country’s ability to counter aerial threats. The delivery is part of the $5.43 billion (around ₹35,000 crore) agreement signed between India and Russia in 2018 for five S-400 squadrons.
The latest consignment has begun arriving in India and is expected to be operationally deployed soon by the Indian Air Force (IAF).
What Makes the S-400 Special?
The S-400 Triumf is regarded as one of the world’s most advanced long-range air defence systems. It can detect and destroy a wide range of aerial targets, including fighter jets, drones, cruise missiles and ballistic missiles.
The system can engage targets at distances of up to 400 kilometres and track multiple threats simultaneously, making it a critical component of India’s layered air defence architecture.
Strategic Deployment Along Sensitive Borders
India has already deployed three S-400 squadrons in strategically important sectors facing Pakistan and China. The newly arrived fourth squadron is expected to further strengthen the country’s western and northern air defence network.
The Indian Air Force has reportedly nicknamed the S-400 system “Sudarshan Chakra” because of its powerful defensive capabilities.
#Russia has delivered the 4th #S400 squadron to Indian Air Force, further strengthening India’s long range air defence shield, with the final 5th squadron expected later this year. pic.twitter.com/o8ZHhQJFhw
— IDU (@defencealerts) June 3, 2026
Delivery Despite Russia-Ukraine Conflict
The delivery assumes significance as the Russia-Ukraine war had disrupted production schedules and global supply chains, causing delays in the execution of the contract.
Despite these challenges, Russia has continued deliveries to India and has assured New Delhi that the fifth and final squadron will also be supplied under the original agreement.
Fifth Squadron Expected Soon
Defence officials expect the final S-400 squadron to be delivered by late 2026 or early 2027, completing the full contract.
The completion of all five squadrons will provide India with enhanced protection for key military installations, major cities and strategic assets against modern aerial and missile threats.
India Expanding Air Defence Capabilities
Alongside the S-400 programme, India is pursuing indigenous air defence projects, including the long-range Project Kusha missile shield. The objective is to develop a multi-layered defence system capable of addressing emerging threats in an increasingly complex security environment.
The arrival of the fourth S-400 squadron marks another important step in India’s military modernization and efforts to strengthen national security amid evolving regional challenges.
