 "Russian S-400 air defence mobile missile launching systems take part in a military parade during celebrations marking Independence Day in Minsk, July 3, 2014. File Image/Reuters")
Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh has revealed that India’s S-400 Triumf air defence system, locally dubbed the “Sudarshan Chakra”, shot down five Pakistani fighter jets and one airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft during Operation Sindoor, marking the largest-ever recorded surface-to-air kill for India.
Speaking at the Air Chief Marshal LM Katre Memorial Lecture in Bengaluru, Singh said the AEW&C aircraft was targeted at a range of about 300 kilometres, confirming for the first time the scale of Pakistan’s aerial losses in the April operation. The system also intercepted multiple drones and missiles during the mission.
From Moscow to the Himalayas
First developed in 2007, the Russian-made S-400 was originally deployed for the defence of Moscow, later serving in Syria to protect Russian assets, and in Crimea after its annexation from Ukraine.
India signed a $5.43 billion deal in 2018 for five S-400 regiments, with deliveries initially planned to conclude by 2023. However, the Russia–Ukraine conflict and resulting supply chain disruptions pushed back the timeline.
The first regiment arrived in December 2021, followed by the second in April 2022 and the third in October 2023. These are now operational along India’s western and northern borders, covering both Pakistan and China.
Full power in India by 2026
The fourth and fifth regiments are set to arrive from Russia in February and August 2026, respectively. Each S-400 regiment can deploy multiple interceptor missiles capable of destroying aircraft, drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles at ranges up to 400 km.
After induction, the system was rechristened as Sudarshan Chakra, a nod to its role in safeguarding India’s skies. Defence sources say talks are underway for additional batteries to bolster coverage.