Russia has dispatched the fourth S-400 air defence system meant for India, with delivery expected by mid-May, according to reports from New Delhi.
The Russian-made S-400, often described in India as a “Sudarshana Chakra”, is designed to track incoming missiles from long distances and intercept targets at ranges of up to 400 km. It is considered among the most accurate air defence systems in service globally.
India signed a deal in 2018 to procure five S-400 units for about Rs 40,000 crore and has already paid the full amount. So far, three systems have been delivered and deployed along the Pakistan and China borders.
During last year’s “Operation Sindoor”, the system reportedly performed effectively by intercepting and destroying missiles and drones launched from Pakistan. Following this, the Centre pressed Russia to expedite the remaining two units.
The fourth unit was shipped by sea on April 18, and the Indian Air Force has decided to position it near the Rajasthan border. The fifth S-400 system is expected to be delivered by November.
