Context
India is set to expedite the delivery of the remaining two units of the S-400 Triumf air defence system from Russia. Despite previous delays caused by supply chain disruptions and the Russia-Ukraine war, the final deliveries are now scheduled for completion by November 2026.
1. Key Details of the S-400 Deal
- The Agreement: India signed a $5.43 billion deal with Russia in 2018 to procure five squadrons of the S-400 system.
- Current Status: Three units have already been inducted into service; the remaining two are being fast-tracked to enhance national security.
- Strategic Collaboration: Delivery timelines were discussed during high-level bilateral meetings between the Indian Defence Minister and Russian counterparts.
2. Technical Features of the S-400 Triumf
- Multilayered Protection: It is a mobile, surface-to-air missile (SAM) system capable of engaging multiple targets simultaneously, including aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and ballistic and cruise missiles.
- Operational Range: Known as one of the most advanced systems globally, it has a tracking range of up to 600 km and an engagement range of up to 400 km.
- Engagement Altitude: Can hit targets at altitudes as high as 30 km.
- System Components: Includes a multifunction radar, autonomous detection and targeting systems, anti-aircraft missile systems, launchers, and a command-and-control center.
3. India’s Multi-Tiered Air Defence Grid
The S-400 acts as the “outer layer” of India’s Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) and general air defence architecture.
| Layer | System | Origin | Engagement Range |
| Very long Range | Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) Program- Prithvi Air Defence (PAD) | Indigenous | 50-80 km |
| Long Range (Outer) | S-400 Triumf | Russia | Up to 400 km |
| Medium Range | MRSAM (Barak-8) | Indo-Israel | 70–100 km |
| Short Range | Akash Missile System | Indigenous (DRDO) | ~25 km |
| Very Short Range | VSHORADS / IGMLA-S | Indigenous / Russia | Up to 6 km |
With reference to the S-400 Triumf, consider the following statements:
1. It is a surface-to-air missile system capable of engaging multiple targets simultaneously.
2. It can intercept both cruise missiles and ballistic missiles.
3. Its maximum engagement range is less than 200 km.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: A
Explanation:
Explanation of Statements:
1. Statement 1 is correct: The S-400 is a mobile, surface-to-air missile (SAM) system designed to engage multiple targets simultaneously, including aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
2. Statement 2 is correct: The system is highly versatile and is capable of intercepting both cruise missiles and ballistic missiles.
3. Statement 3 is incorrect: The maximum engagement range of the S-400 is approximately 400 km, not less than 200 km. It also has a tracking range of up to 600 km.
