India is set to get the fourth squadron of the Russian-origin S-400 air defence missile system by the end of this week, reported Indian media on Tuesday.
The delivery involves a highly coordinated logistical operation combining sea-based cargo routes and heavy-lift military transport aircraft. Following a strict pre-dispatch inspection by Indian Air Force (IAF) officials, the massive components are packed into specialised containers to prevent damage and tracking.
The delivery of the fourth S-400 squadron marks a critical stage in the original $5.43 billion contract signed in 2018 for five total units. This fourth unit is slated for strategic deployment in the Rajasthan sector to significantly reinforce long-range missile and drone defence along India’s western border.
This arrival follows the system’s deployment during Operation Sindoor, where the three existing S-400 squadrons (now localized under the name ‘Sudarshan Chakra’) established a credible defence grid against aerial threats.
The fifth and final squadron under this initial deal is expected to be delivered by November, and will likely be stationed along the northern frontier with China. Furthermore, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has already cleared a proposal to procure five additional S-400 units to fully build out India’s multi-layered “Iron Dome” architecture.
It may be mentioned here that Pakistan Air Force has destroyed an Indian S-400 defence missile system during May 2025 conflict during which a number of Indian warplanes were also shot down.
