SOURCE: AFI
India is set to raise concerns regarding the significant delays in the delivery of the two remaining squadrons of the S-400 Triumf air defense missile systems, as well as the supply of crucial spares for several weapon platforms, during Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s upcoming three-day visit to Russia next week. The visit, which will focus on strengthening defense ties between the two nations, comes at a time when India’s air defense capabilities are critically dependent on the timely delivery of these high-tech systems.
In 2018, India signed a landmark $5.43 billion (approximately Rs 40,000 crore) deal with Russia for the procurement of five squadrons of the S-400 Triumf air defense missile system. This deal marked a major step in India’s efforts to enhance its defense posture, especially in light of the growing security challenges along its borders with China and Pakistan.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has already deployed the first three squadrons of the S-400 in the northwest and eastern sectors of India, strategically positioning them to defend against potential threats from both neighboring adversaries. With a detection range of up to 380 kilometers, the S-400 is designed to counter and neutralize a range of aerial threats, including hostile strategic bombers, fighter jets, spy planes, missiles, and drones.
However, delays in the delivery of the remaining two squadrons have raised concerns within the IAF. The timely induction of these additional squadrons is critical to India’s ability to maintain a robust air defense system, particularly in areas of strategic importance. The delays, attributed to various logistical and manufacturing challenges, have been a source of frustration for Indian defense officials, who are expected to address these issues with their Russian counterparts during Singh’s visit.
In addition to the delays in the S-400 system’s full deployment, India has also faced challenges with the supply of spares for several other key weapon platforms. This includes not only the S-400 systems but also other critical defense equipment that require ongoing maintenance and support to remain operational. The supply of these spares has been hindered by both the geopolitical situation and the global supply chain disruptions exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which has affected Russian defense exports.
The S-400 Triumf is one of the most advanced air defense systems globally, capable of tracking and engaging multiple targets simultaneously across vast distances. Its ability to detect and neutralize threats at ranges of up to 380 kilometers gives it a significant edge in air defense capabilities, ensuring India can effectively counter any hostile aerial threat before it reaches critical areas.