India Defies US Sanctions to Acquire Advanced S-400 Missile System from Russia

 New Delhi, – India has moved forward with its decision to purchase the advanced S-400 Triumph missile defence system from Russia, despite threats of U.S. sanctions, marking a significant step in bolstering its military capabilities. The first instalment of ₹6,000 crore has already been paid as part of a ₹40,000 crore deal signed in October 2018 to acquire five S-400 squadrons, with deliveries expected between 2020 and 2023. Combined with the ₹59,000 crore acquisition of Rafale fighter jets from France, the Indian Air Force anticipates a transformative enhancement of its defence capabilities.

The S-400 Triumph, operational in the Russian military since 2007, is a state-of-the-art air defence system capable of detecting and destroying enemy bombers, jets, spy planes, and drones within a 380 km range. It can engage targets at varying distances—120, 200, 250, and 380 km—neutralizing ballistic and cruise missiles, fighter jets, and even hypersonic aircraft. The system can simultaneously track 300 targets within a 600 km radius and destroy up to three dozen targets within 400 km. With a computer-controlled speed eight times that of sound, the S-400 outclasses the U.S.-developed Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) system, with experts noting that one S-400 unit equates to four Patriot units in capability.

India’s acquisition follows China’s purchase of the same system, prompting New Delhi to expedite its procurement amid tensions along the India-China border. Once deployed, the S-400 is expected to become India’s most formidable defence asset in the region, capable of neutralizing threats from both China and Pakistan. The system’s radar can monitor a 600 km range, ensuring that aircraft or missiles launched from either country can be detected and destroyed swiftly, providing a robust shield over India’s airspace. Three units will be stationed along the western border with Pakistan, while two will guard the frontier with China.

The U.S. has responded cautiously, emphasizing that its sanctions—targeting nations engaging with Russia, North Korea, or Iran—are not intended to undermine allies’ defence capabilities and may allow exemptions under strict conditions. India has engaged in diplomatic efforts to navigate these sanctions, having completed necessary discussions with Russia to secure the deal. The S-400’s ability to counter advanced aircraft, including the U.S.’s F-35 fighter jets, has heightened American concerns, as the system’s technology remains untested by the U.S. military.

Defence experts highlight that the S-400 will significantly strengthen India’s air defence, particularly against potential aerial threats from neighboring countries. The system’s deployment sends a clear message to Pakistan and China, with its radar coverage extending to key Pakistani air bases like Sargodha and regions in Balochistan, as well as Chinese border areas, ensuring comprehensive surveillance and deterrence.