The friendship between India and Russia is considered one of the most trusting relationships in the world. Despite the energy crisis and rising tensions in West Asia, this friendship remains unbreakable. Be it defense deals, energy security, or diplomatic support, the two countries have supported each other for over five decades. As part of this strong partnership, and just before the first anniversary of ‘Operation Vermillion’, Russia has shipped the fourth S-400 air defense system to India. This is the same defense system which had severely crippled Pakistan’s capabilities during ‘Operation Sindoor’.
It is expected that this system will reach any Indian port by mid-May. Meanwhile, the fifth S-400 system—which performed brilliantly during ‘Operation Sindoor’—is likely to be delivered to India in November this year. The Modi government has also approved the purchase of five more S-400 systems. The system has a strike range of up to 400 kilometers, which means it has the capability to neutralize any aerial target—such as aircraft or missiles—located within Pakistani territory, east of the Indus River.
According to sources, Indian Air Force officials visited Russia and completed inspection of the incoming S-400 systems by April 18. After this, last week this system was shipped from Russia to India. It is expected that this new system will be deployed in the Rajasthan sector, which aims to further strengthen India’s missile defense capabilities against Pakistan.
India has also decided to purchase 280 more short and long-range S-400 missiles. The purpose of this purchase is to replenish the stock of missiles used during ‘Operation Vermillion’ and to create a safe strategic stockpile of weapons, as this operation is not yet completely over. It is estimated that India fired 11 long-range S-400 missiles against Pakistan, which successfully shot down enemy fighters, airborne warning and control (AWACS) aircraft, and transport aircraft. During ‘Operation Sindoor’, Pakistan had tried to target two S-400 systems deployed in Punjab and Gujarat. They realized that because of this Russian system and its powerful radar, none of their aircraft east of the Indus River were safe. The fear of S-400 was so great that Pakistan sent all its fighter planes and air platforms to bases in Quetta and Peshawar to protect them from the reach of Indian missiles.