India’Sudarshan Chakra:-S-400

In recent years, India has significantly enhanced its air defence capabilities with the induction of the S-400 Triumf air defence system, known domestically as the Sudarshan Chakra. This advanced system, developed by Russia, has become a cornerstone of India’s defence strategy, providing robust protection against a wide array of aerial threats.

Deal:-

In 5 October 2018, India and Russia signed a landmark $5.43 billion agreement for the procurement of five S-400 squadrons. The deal was finalized despite potential sanctions under the U.S. Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA), emphasizing India’s strategic necessity for the system. Deliveries commenced in late 2021, with the final squadron expected by 2026

Capabilities:-

The S-400 is renowned for its multi-layered defence capabilities. Each squadron comprises 16 vehicles, including launchers, radar systems, command centres, and support vehicles. The system can track aerial threats up to 600 km away and engage targets at ranges up to 400 km. It employs four types of missiles, capable of intercepting fighter jets, ballistic missiles, and drones

How the S-400 Triumf Air Defence System Works:

S-400 Triumf, developed by Russia’s Almaz-Antey, is one of the world’s most sophisticated long-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) systems. Designed to detect, track, and neutralize a wide range of aerial threats, the system operates through a coordinated multi-layered process

🔍 1. Detection and Tracking:

• 91N6E “Big Bird” radar – for long-range detection
• 92N6E “Grave Stone” radar – for fire control and missile guidance

These radars can detect aircraft, drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles at distances up to 600 kilometers. The system can track over 300 targets simultaneously, even those with low radar signatures, like stealth aircraft

🧠 2. Target Classification and Assignment:

Once the radar picks up incoming objects, the system automatically identifies whether they are friendly or hostile using IFF (Identification Friend or Foe) protocols. If the object is confirmed as a threat, it is then assigned to a specific launcher unit. Meanwhile, the system can simultaneously engage up to 36 targets, each tracked according to its threat level and flight pattern.

🚀 3. Missile Launch:

• 40N6 – Long-range missile (up to 400 km)
• 48N6 – Medium-long range (up to 250 km)
• 9M96E2 – Medium range (up to 120 km)
• 9M96E – Short range (up to 40 km

🛰️ 4. In-Flight Guidance and Target Interception:

After launch, ground radar provides real-time updates and inertial navigation guides the missile toward the target .In the final moments before impact, it switches to active radar homing, locking onto the target for precise destruction.

The interception can occur at high altitudes and supersonic speeds, allowing the S-400 to counter fast-moving, high-altitude threats like enemy fighter jets or ballistic missiles.

✅ 5. Key Strengths of the S-400 System:

• High Accuracy: The system boasts exceptional accuracy and rapid reaction time.
• Stealth Detection: Capable of detecting and tracking stealth aircraft.
• Multi-Target Capability: Can track and neutralize multiple targets simultaneously.
• All-Weather Operation: Functions effectively under all weather and lighting conditions.
• Full Mobility: Road-mobile and deployed in under five minutes.

System Integration: In India, it’s integrated with the Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS), enhancing networked defence capabilities.

📝 Conclusion:

The induction of the S-400 Triumf, known as Sudarshan Chakra in India, marks a significant leap in the country’s air defence capabilities. With its multi-layered interception system, long-range detection, and precision strike features, the S-400 provides India with a powerful shield against modern aerial threats. This strategic acquisition not only enhances national security but also signals India’s commitment to building a technologically advanced and self-reliant defence infrastructure.