India is considering a plan to expand its long-range air defence network by acquiring five additional Russian S-400 “Sudarshan Chakra” missile systems, potentially doubling its fleet to ten battalions. The move would significantly strengthen India’s ability to defend against aircraft, cruise missiles, drones and limited ballistic missile threats.
India originally signed a $5.5-billion deal with Russia in 2018 for five S-400 systems, with deliveries beginning in 2021. Three units have already been deployed, while the remaining systems are expected by 2026. The proposed new procurement would build on this capability and provide broader coverage across both western and eastern fronts.
Each S-400 unit integrates advanced radar, command centres and multiple missile launchers capable of engaging targets up to about 380 kilometres away and at high altitudes. The system can track numerous aerial threats simultaneously and launch different interceptor missiles depending on the target type.
The expansion reflects India’s effort to strengthen a layered air-defence architecture while indigenous projects such as long-range missile systems are still under development. Defence planners view additional S-400 units as critical to protecting strategic assets, airbases and population centres amid evolving regional security challenges.
