An Indian business has been chosen by the Defence Ministry to set up a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility for the S-400 "Sudarshan Chakra" air defence system

What is the S-400 ‘Sudarshan Chakra’?

The S-400 Triumf, known as SA-21 Growler to NATO, is an extensive, multi-tiered surface-to-air missile system created by Russia’s Almaz-Antey.

In Indian service, it is referred to as ‘Sudarshan Chakra’, signifying its rapid and exact defensive capability.

Created By:

Almaz-Antey Corporation for Air and Space Defense, Russia.

Joined Russian service in 2007, with India acquiring it through a 2018 bilateral agreement.

India’s Purchasing Schedule:

Agreement Finalized: October 2018 for ₹35,000 crore (around $5.4 billion).

Quantity: 5 squadrons requested and 3 received so far.

Two units left to be delivered by 2026 and 2027.

Objective of the S-400 in India:

Counter aerial threats like fighter jets, ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and UAVs.

Guarantee airspace denial and deterrence across western and northern frontiers.

Provide strategic protection for cities, military facilities, and vital installations.

Principal Attributes of S-400 Sudarshan Chakra:

Identifies dangers at distances of up to 600 km.

Targets are engaged at four distinct missile ranges, reaching up to 400 km.

At the same time monitors and interacts with 80 airborne targets.

Neutralizes stealth planes, unmanned aerial vehicles, hypersonic missiles.

Swift Reply:

Complete tracking-to-launch process in just seconds.

Guided missiles utilize active and semi-active radar homers.

Integrated Elements:

Command vehicle, long-range observation radar, targeting radar, and launcher vehicles.

Every squadron consists of more than 16 vehicles.

Deployment and Responsibilities:

Already stationed in Pathankot, Siliguri Corridor, and Western Front.