Source: TH
Context: The Ministry of Defence has identified an Indian firm to set up a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility for the S-400 ‘Sudarshan Chakra’ air defence system.
About S-400 ‘Sudarshan Chakra’ air defence system:
- What is S-400 ‘Sudarshan Chakra’?
- The S-400 Triumf, codenamed SA-21 Growler by NATO, is a long-range, multi-layered surface-to-air missile system developed by Russia’s Almaz-Antey.
- In Indian service, it is named ‘Sudarshan Chakra’, reflecting its swift and precise defensive power.
- Developed By:
-
- Almaz-Antey Air and Space Defence Corporation, Russia.
- Entered Russian service in 2007, with India procuring it under a 2018 bilateral agreement.
- India’s Procurement Timeline:
-
- Deal Signed: October 2018 for ₹35,000 crore (approx. $5.4 billion).
- Quantity: 5 squadrons ordered and 3 delivered till now.
- Remaining 2 units to arrive by 2026 and 2027.
- Purpose of the S-400 in India:
-
- Neutralise aerial threats such as fighter jets, ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and UAVs.
- Ensure airspace denial and deterrence along western and northern borders.
- Offer strategic cover to cities, military bases, and critical installations.
- Key Features of S-400 Sudarshan Chakra:
-
- Range & Tracking:
- Detects threats up to 600 km.
- Engages targets at four different missile ranges, up to 400 km.
- Multi-Target Capability:
- Simultaneously tracks and engages 80 aerial targets.
- Counteracts stealth aircraft, drones, hypersonic weapons.
- Quick Response:
- Full tracking-to-launch cycle within seconds.
- Guided missiles use active and semi-active radar seekers.
- Integrated Components:
- Command vehicle, long-range surveillance radar, engagement radar, and launcher trucks.
- Each squadron includes 16+ vehicles.
- Deployment & Role:
- Already deployed in Pathankot, Siliguri Corridor, and Western Front.
- Played a crucial role during Operation Sindoor by intercepting over 15 aerial threats.
- Range & Tracking:
