S-400 Triumf (Sudarshan Chakra) has proved a potent Air defence System in Operation Sindoor for India to show its prowess and brought Pakistanis to their Knees. It just took 3 days, and Pakistan went crying to the US to save them from disseminating. Although a Ceasefire has been announced, but Indian Armed Forces showed its might to the world. In the process, S-400 Triumf again proved its capabilities. Akash and Harop Unmanned Aerial Vehicles are also in action. Let’s know in brief about S-400 Triumf
S-400 Triumf: A Potent Air Defence System
The S-400 Triumf, designated by NATO as the SA-21 Growler, is a highly advanced, mobile long-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) system developed by Russia’s Almaz Central Design Bureau. It is considered one of the most sophisticated air defence systems globally, designed to counter a wide array of aerial threats.
Key Capabilities:
- Versatile Interception: The S-400 is capable of engaging various aerial targets, including strategic bombers, fighter jets (including stealth aircraft), spy planes, cruise missiles, ballistic missiles, and drones.
- Layered Defence: It employs multiple types of missiles with varying ranges to create a multi-layered defence, effectively engaging threats at different distances. These ranges can extend up to 400 kilometers, with some sources indicating missile ranges of 120 km, 200 km, 250 km, and 380-400 km. It can also engage targets at altitudes up to 30 km.
- Advanced Radar System: The S-400 is equipped with a powerful radar system that can detect and track a large number of targets simultaneously (up to 300 targets, according to some sources) at significant distances, reportedly up to 600 kilometers. It can engage multiple targets at once (sources vary, suggesting up to 36 or 72 simultaneously).
- High Mobility and Rapid Deployment: The entire system is mounted on mobile launchers, allowing for rapid deployment and repositioning. It can reportedly be ready for combat within minutes.
- Command and Control: An S-400 squadron typically includes a command-and-control center, surveillance and engagement radars, and multiple launch vehicles. It can also be integrated with other air defence systems to enhance overall situational awareness and effectiveness.
Operational Significance:
The S-400 Triumf is a strategically significant weapon system that enhances a nation’s air defence capabilities by creating an “anti-access/area denial” (A2/AD) zone. Its long range and ability to counter a diverse range of threats make it a formidable deterrent.
Operators:
Russia is the primary operator of the S-400. Several other countries have also acquired or expressed interest in the system, including:
- India: India signed a significant deal with Russia in 2018 for the procurement of S-400 squadrons. Several of these systems are reportedly operational and have been deployed. In India, the system is also referred to as “Sudarshan Chakra.” Recent reports from May 2025 indicate that India has used the S-400 system to counter aerial threats.
- China: China was the first international customer for the S-400.
- Turkey: A NATO member, Turkey’s acquisition of the S-400 has caused friction with other NATO allies.
- Belarus and Algeria are also reported to have acquired the system.
Sudarshan Chakra: India’s Deal
India has procured a total of five squadrons of the Russian-made S-400 Triumf air defence missile system, known in Indian service as “Sudarshan Chakra.” Of these, three squadrons are already operational, while the remaining two are expected to be delivered by 2026.
India signed a deal worth approximately ₹35,000 crore (around $5.4 billion) in 2018 to procure five squadrons of the Russian-made S-400 Triumf air defence missile system.
The S-400 missile’s ability to engage multiple targets simultaneously and its extended range make it a critical asset for airspace denial and defence. It can target a wide array of threats, including advanced stealth aircraft, airborne early warning systems (AWACS) and support jammers, thereby significantly enhancing a nation’s aerial defence posture.