S-400 Air Defence System: A Gamechanger for India
The Russian-origin S-400 air defence system, also known as the 'Sudarshan Chakra', has significantly enhanced India's military capabilities. It has effectively thwarted several drone and missile attacks by the Pakistan Air Force along India's western and north-western borders.
Significance and Capabilities
- The S-400 system is renowned for its advanced radar and interception capabilities.
- It successfully neutralized 15 missiles fired by Pakistan at Indian military sites.
- Capable of engaging multiple targets simultaneously, the system can intercept aircraft, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles at varying ranges and altitudes.
- The S-400 is composed of three main components:
- Missile Launchers
- Powerful Radar
- Command Centre
Strategic Acquisition Challenges
- The acquisition of the S-400 was met with potential challenges, including the threat of US sanctions under the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA).
- In 2022, the US House of Representatives approved an India-specific CAATSA waiver for the S-400 purchase.
- A bill introduced by Marco Rubio sought to provide India a limited exemption from CAATSA sanctions, treating India on par with allies like Japan, Israel, and South Korea for technology transfers.
Operational Status
- India currently has three operational S-400 systems, with two more expected by 2026.
- The decision to purchase the S-400 was made in India’s national interests, strongly supported by the Indian political leadership.