India-Russia in talks to acquire 5 more S-400 air defence system

By_shalini oraon

The report states that India and Russia are in negotiations for India to purchase five additional S-400 air defence system regiments. It also makes a significant claim about the system’s performance, attributing Pakistan’s alleged decision not to fly east of the Indus River on a specific date (May 10) to the deterrent effect of the existing S-400 systems.

Key Details and Context

1. The S-400 ‘Triumf’: The S-400 is one of the most advanced long-range surface-to-air missile systems in the world, capable of engaging aircraft, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles at ranges of up to 400 km.
2. India’s Existing Deal: India signed a $5.4 billion deal for five S-400 regiments in 2018. The delivery of these units has been staggered, with several already inducted and operational. A new deal for five more would significantly enhance India’s integrated air defence capabilities.
3. The “Operation Sindoor” Reference: This is the most provocative part of the claim.
   · Date: May 10 is significant as it was the day of the 2024 Indian general elections.
   · Claim: The article asserts that the Pakistani Air Force (PAF) did not fly east of the Indus River on that day due to the presence of the S-400. The Indus River is a strategic geographical feature, and “flying east of it” would imply operations closer to the Indian border.
   · Lack of Official Confirmation: It is crucial to note that there has been no official confirmation from the Indian government, the Indian Air Force (IAF), or Pakistan regarding this specific event, dubbed “Operation Sindoor.” Such operational details are typically highly classified.

Analysis of the Claim

· Plausible Deterrence: The core idea is plausible from a strategic standpoint. The S-400’s long range and capability to track numerous targets would make any airborne incursion deep into its coverage zone extremely risky. Its known presence could act as a powerful deterrent, influencing an adversary’s operational planning.
· Unverified Anecdote: However, the specific anecdote about May 10 and “Operation Sindoor” should be treated as an unverified claim, likely from an unnamed source. It serves to justify the value of the system and build public support for the potential new purchase.

Potential Implications of a New Deal

1. Enhanced Air Defence: Five additional regiments would allow India to create a denser and more layered air defence network, covering more strategic locations along both the western and northern borders.
2. Geopolitical Considerations:
   · US Relations: The original S-400 purchase triggered sanctions threats from the US under the CAATSA law. A second, major deal would present a significant diplomatic challenge for the US-India relationship, forcing Washington to decide between enforcing sanctions and prioritizing the strategic partnership with India to counter China.
   · Strengthened Russia Ties: It would reinforce the deep defence ties between India and Russia at a time when Russia is isolated by Western sanctions due to the war in Ukraine.
3. Regional Power Dynamics: The acquisition would further widen the technological gap in air defence capabilities between India and Pakistan, solidifying India’s qualitative military edge in the region.

In conclusion, while the talks for additional S-400 systems are a significant development in defence procurement, the specific operational claim made in the article remains unconfirmed and should be viewed as part of the narrative surrounding the system’s strategic value.