In a decisive show of strength, India’s ‘Sudarshan Chakra’—the S-400 air defence system—intercepted and destroyed eight missiles fired by Pakistan at the Jammu region during heightened hostilities on Thursday.
The missiles, launched by Pakistan as tensions soared following India’s Operation Sindoor, were successfully neutralised before they could reach civilian areas. The swift response by the S-400 units is being hailed as a game-changer in India’s defensive preparedness and strategic deterrence.
What is the S-400 ‘Sudarshan Chakra’?
The S-400 Triumf, dubbed ‘Sudarshan Chakra’ by the IAF, is a Russian-made long-range surface-to-air missile system considered one of the most advanced in the world. It is designed to engage a wide range of aerial threats including fighter jets, cruise missiles, drones, and even ballistic missiles. Its layered defence capabilities allow it to neutralise threats from as far as 400 km away and track targets up to 600 km, offering India a significant strategic advantage.
India signed a $5 billion (₹35,000 crore) deal with Russia in 2018 to acquire five S-400 squadrons. Despite global pressure, particularly from the United States under CAATSA (Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act), India prioritized its defence needs and proceeded with the purchase. The first delivery began in late 2021, and currently, three squadrons are operational with full integration into the IAF’s command and control network.
Each S-400 squadron comprises two batteries, with each battery equipped with six launchers, a radar system, and a control centre. These components work in coordination to detect, track, and eliminate incoming threats with precision. The system’s strength lies not only in its range but also in its ability to engage multiple targets at various altitudes and speeds. Its missiles come in four variants, tailored for different ranges and threat types, giving it a flexible and potent defence profile.
During the recent attack, the ‘Sudarshan Chakra’ demonstrated its full combat potential by taking out eight hostile missiles within seconds, preventing any damage or loss of life. This real-world engagement has validated the system’s effectiveness, which until now had only been tested in simulations and military drills where it had recorded an 80% interception success rate.
