Indian Air Force Set to Receive Fourth Squadron of S-400 Air Defense System
New Delhi: The Indian Air Force is expected to receive the fourth squadron of the advanced S-400 air defense system from Russia later this week. The induction of this system is anticipated to significantly enhance India’s aerial defense capabilities. In contrast, questions have been raised in recent years regarding the operational effectiveness of China’s HQ-9B air defense system.
In 2018, India signed a defense agreement with Russia worth approximately $5.43 billion for the procurement of five squadrons of the S-400 system. Although the Russia-Ukraine conflict caused delays in delivery, the fourth squadron is now set to arrive in India. According to reports, the heavy components of the system are being transported through both sea and air routes. Officials of the Indian Air Force have also completed the testing and inspection procedures in Russia.
Sources indicate that the fourth squadron is likely to be deployed in the western sector, where it will monitor and counter potential aerial threats originating from Pakistan. Meanwhile, the fifth squadron is reportedly planned for deployment near the China border to strengthen India’s strategic defense preparedness.
