India is expanding its multi-layered missile defence architecture through foreign procurement, indigenous development, and local support facilities. The plan covers short-range, medium-range, and long-range systems, with deployments linked to western and northern border sectors and to the wider air defence network planned under Mission Sudarshan Chakra.
S-400 Triumf Procurement
India signed a $5.4 billion agreement with Russia in October 2018 for five S-400 Triumf long-range surface-to-air missile systems. The fourth S-400 system is expected by mid-May 2026 and is planned for deployment in the Rajasthan sector. The fifth system is scheduled for delivery in November 2026 and is planned for deployment near the border with China.
Mission Sudarshan Chakra
Mission Sudarshan Chakra was announced on 15 August 2025 as an integrated air and missile defence plan for strategic and civilian areas by 2035. The mission includes air defence, missile defence, cyber defence, and counter-strike weapons. The government has approved five additional S-400 Triumf systems from Russia, taking the planned inventory to ten squadrons.
Project Kusha and Other Systems
Project Kusha is a ground-based air and missile defence system under development by the Defence Research and Development Organisation. It is designed to produce interceptors with ranges of 150 km to 400 km and to supplement Barak 8 and S-400 systems. India also plans to acquire Pantsir systems for drone defence and for protection of air defence assets.
Maintenance, Stockpiles, and Industrial Base
India plans to replenish missile stockpiles and establish local maintenance and overhaul facilities for S-400 systems. In February 2026, India sought joint development of missile defence and laser interceptor systems with Israel, along with long-range, surface-to-surface, and air-launched missiles. Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh referred on 30 April 2026 to diversified production lines for fighter aircraft under the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft programme and for missile systems. The S-400 Triumf is a Russian long-range surface-to-air missile system used for air defence against aircraft, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles. Mission Sudarshan Chakra and Project Kusha are linked to India’s layered air and missile defence framework.
Last Modified: April 30, 2026