SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
India is actively considering bolstering its air defence capabilities through the acquisition of additional S-400 air defence systems from Russia, according to a report by the Asian News International (ANI). Furthermore, India has expressed a strong preference for procuring the advanced S-500 air defence system, which boasts a greater range and enhanced capabilities compared to the S-400. However, the sale of the S-500 would require approval from Russia’s top leadership, given its status as a cutting-edge strategic asset.
idrw.org was the first to report last year that Russia had offered India the opportunity for joint local production of the S-500 system, marking India as the first country globally to receive such an offer.
The S-400 system has already proven its mettle in India’s arsenal. During Operation Sindoor, the S-400 demonstrated its formidable capabilities by successfully neutralizing a Pakistan Air Force (PAF) Saab 2000 Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) deep inside Pakistani airspace. This decisive action reportedly deterred the PAF from deploying additional AWACS during the conflict, fearing further losses. The operation effectively imposed an unofficial “no-fly zone” over parts of Pakistani airspace, underscoring the S-400’s strategic impact.
The potential acquisition of the S-500 is seen as a strategic counter to recent developments in the region, particularly Pakistan’s reported purchase of China’s J-35A stealth fighter jet. As reported by idrw.org, the S-500 is optimized to detect and engage low-observable jets with stealth profiles, making it a critical asset for countering advanced aerial threats. The system’s ability to track and neutralize stealth aircraft would significantly enhance India’s air defence network, providing a robust deterrent against emerging threats.
The S-500 utilizes a multi-band phased array radar system, including radars like the 91N6A(M) and X-band fire control radar. These advanced radars are designed to track low-observable (stealth) targets by using multiple frequencies and sophisticated signal processing. While stealth aircraft are designed to minimize detection by higher-frequency radars, they are generally less effective against lower-frequency radars. The S-500 is believed to incorporate low-frequency detection capabilities.
India’s interest in the S-500 reflects its broader strategy to maintain a technological edge in the region amid evolving security challenges. The S-500, with its extended range and advanced radar systems, is designed to counter a wide array of threats, including ballistic missiles, hypersonic weapons, and stealth aircraft. If approved, S-500 will work with S-400 and India’s very own Project Kusha Air defence system along with MR-SAM, Akash-NG and legacy Akash as a Grid.
However, the acquisition of the S-500 would hinge on diplomatic negotiations and Russia’s willingness to share one of its most advanced defence systems.
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