S-400 Missile Achieves 80% Accuracy: Capable of Hitting Targets 400 km Away, Air Force Conducts War Practice
In War Practice, Indian Air Force’s Sudarshan S-400 Air Defense Missile System Takes Down 80% of Enemy Fighter Jets; Remaining Forces Forced to Retreat and Abort Mission
The Air Force conducted a theater-level war practice, deploying the squadron of the S-400 air defense missile system. During the exercise, Rafale, Sukhoi, and MiG fighter jets acted as enemy aircraft. The S-400 locked onto its targets and accurately hit about 80% of the fighter jets. The purpose of the practice was to test the capabilities of the S-400 air defense system.
The S-400 missile defense system imported from Russia can detect and counterattack targets from a distance of 400 kilometers. Air Chief Marshal V.R. Chaudhari has named it “Sudarshan.” The Sudarshan Chakra is a prominent weapon of Lord Krishna.
India has received five squadrons of the S-400 from Russia, with three already deployed and two remaining to be stationed.
In 2018, India and Russia finalized a ₹35,000 crore deal for five squadrons of the S-400 missile system. Out of these, three squadrons are already deployed along the China and Pakistan borders, while the remaining two are yet to arrive. The delay is due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. These squadrons are expected to be delivered to the Indian Air Force by August 2026. The military believes that the S-400 will be a game changer for them. Russia has previously used the S-400 missile in the war against Ukraine.
The Indian Air Force has recently acquired the indigenous MR-SAM and Akash missile systems, along with the Israeli Spyder Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile System. The Defense Council has also recently approved the purchase of the Long Range Surface-to-Air Missile System under Project Kusha.
The S-400 is a highly advanced and versatile air defense missile system, known for several key features:
- Long Range and High Altitude Capability: The S-400 can detect and engage targets up to 400 kilometers away and at altitudes up to 30 kilometers, allowing it to cover a vast area and protect against a wide range of aerial threats.
- Multi-Target Engagement: The system can track and simultaneously engage multiple targets, including aircraft, drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles, providing comprehensive air defense coverage.
- Advanced Radar and Detection Systems: The S-400 is equipped with sophisticated radar systems that can detect stealth aircraft and other low-observable targets. This includes the ability to track up to 80 targets at once and engage up to 36 simultaneously.
- Versatile Missile Arsenal: The S-400 can launch a variety of missiles, each designed for different types of targets and engagement ranges. This includes the long-range 40N6 missile, which is capable of reaching up to 400 kilometers, and shorter-range options like the 9M96 and 48N6 missiles.
- High Mobility and Rapid Deployment: The S-400 system is mounted on mobile launch vehicles, allowing it to be quickly deployed and relocated as needed. This mobility enhances its survivability and flexibility in different combat scenarios.
- Integrated Command and Control: The system includes a sophisticated command and control network that integrates data from multiple sources, providing a comprehensive situational awareness and allowing for efficient decision-making.
These features make the S-400 one of the most advanced and effective air defense systems in the world, capable of defending against a wide array of aerial threats.