Published: 03:49 PM, 31 July 2024
India's Sudarshan S-400 system 'shoots down' 80% 'enemies' in exercise, the rest forced to retreat
India and Russia had signed a $4.2 billion deal for five squadrons of S-400 India recently put its S-400 air defence missile system, acquired from Russia, to test in a war-like scenario, and the results couldn't be more satisfying. In an exercise carried out by the Indian Air Force, the Sudarshan S-400 system 'shot down' 80 per cent of the 'enemy package'.
The other 20 per cent were forced to retreat and abandon the mission, news agency ANI quoted defence sources as saying.
Notably, India has deployed three squadrons of the long-range air defence missile system on its borders with Pakistan and China. The recent exercise was conducted in a theatre where one of the squadrons has been deployed.
In recent years, China has ramped up investments in its defence capabilities across the Line of Actual Control (LAC), the de facto border between India and Tibet.
In response to these developments, India has now fully integrated the Sudarshan S-400 system into the Air Force. The Russian system is now called Sudarshan by the Indian Air Force, after the mighty Sudarshan chakra of Lord Krishan.
"The Sudarshan, ’locking on and targeting’ in simulated action, could ‘shoot down’ 80 per cent of the ’enemy’ offensive package," the defence source was quoted as saying by ANI.
It showcases the military readiness of our armed forces and also sends out a clear message to potential aggressors.
India-Russia deal
India and Russia had signed a $4.2 billion deal for five squadrons of S-400. The Indian Air Force is yet to receive two more squadrons and they will be delivered by 2026.
New Delhi has asked Moscow to fast-track the manufacturing and delivery process of the remaining two squadrons.
Additionally, India is also looking for other options to boost its defence capabilities.
The Indian Air Force recently received the Indigenous MR-SAM and Akash missile systems as well as the Israeli Spyder quick-reaction surface-to-air missile systems.
Under project Kusha, the Indian Defence Acquisition Council recently gave a nod to the procurement of India's own Long Range Surface-to-Air Missiles.
>> Source: WION
