India to receive fourth S-400 squadron, strengthening its air-defence shield

New Delhi, May 20. In a significant boost to India's air defences, the fourth squadron of the Russian-origin S-400 Triumf air-defence missile system is set to be handed over to the Indian Air Force by the end of this week. Defence sources say the delivery process is in its final stage.

The deal so far

India signed a roughly Rs 35,000-crore agreement with Russia in 2018 for five S-400 squadrons. The first three squadrons are already in service, deployed strategically along the northern and western frontiers. The fourth squadron's delivery completes a major part of the contract.

What makes the S-400 formidable

The S-400 ranks among the world's most advanced long-range air-defence systems. It can engage fighter jets, drones, cruise and ballistic missiles at ranges up to 400 kilometres and altitudes up to 30 kilometres. A single system can track and strike multiple targets simultaneously, creating a layered shield against virtually any aerial threat.

Strategic significance

Defence analysts say deploying the fourth squadron will strengthen surveillance and counter-strike capability along both India's eastern and western borders. The system can intercept hostile aircraft before they cross the frontier, reinforcing the country's "air-denial" posture.

The road ahead

The fifth and final squadron is expected over the coming months. In parallel, India is advancing indigenous air-defence projects — such as the DRDO's Project Kusha — to reduce reliance on imports in the future. The Defence Ministry has not formally commented on delivery timelines but says all contracts are progressing "as planned".