The Indian Air Force (IAF) is fortifying its defensive capabilities with the deployment of three S-400 Triumf air defence missile squadrons along the borders shared with China and Pakistan. In other military development news, India’s Defence Acquisition Council has approved the procurement of the Indian Long Range Surface Air Missile (LRSAM) system under Project Kusha.
The S-400 Triumf Missiles System: An Overview
Introduced by Russia, the S-400 Triumf is a mobile surface-to-air missile (SAM) system engineered to intercept and demolish a range of aerial objects – be it aircraft, drones, cruise missiles, or ballistic missiles. Recognized as the most dangerous operationally deployed modern long-range SAM (MLR SAM), the S-400 can engage up to 36 targets simultaneously with its four different types of missiles, over a range of 400 km and at an altitude of 30 km.
India’s Significance in Procuring the S-400
India opted for the S-400 missiles with a view to bolster its air defense capabilities and deterrence posture against neighbours China and Pakistan, who have been modernizing and expanding their air forces and missile stockpile. In addition, India’s acquisition is key to counterbalance China’s growing influence in the Indian Ocean Region and diversify its defense partners amidst global uncertainties.
Insight into Project Kusha
Project Kusha, helmed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), is an ambitious defense initiative by India with a goal of developing its long-range air defense system by 2028-29. The envisioned long-range air defense systems will be equipped to detect and obliterate enemy projectiles and armour, including cruise missiles, stealth fighter jets, and drones over a long range. Housing three types of interceptor missiles with ranges of 150 km, 250 km, and 350 km, and advanced long-range surveillance and radars, Project Kusha is projected to rival established systems like Russia’s S-400 and Israel’s Iron Dome.
The Iron Dome System of Israel
Israel’s Iron Dome System is a ground-to-air defense system composed of radar and interceptor missiles with capabilities of tracking and neutralizing any rockets or missiles targeted towards Israel. Launched in 2011, the system exhibits its usefulness especially against rockets, artillery and mortars, as well aircrafts, helicopters and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). The system’s three main components are Detection and Tracking radar, Battle Management and Weapons Control, and the Missile Launcher.
UPSC Civil Services Examination Previous Year Questions
For reference, here are some previous year questions from the UPSC Civil Services Examination.
* In 2018, the question was, “What is “Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD)”, sometimes seen in the news?” The correct answer was (c) An American anti-missile system.
* In 2014, the question about Agni-IV Missile was asked: “With reference to Agni-IV Missile, which of the following statements is/are correct?” The correct answer was (a) 1 only.
* In Mains 2020, the question raised was, “What is the significance of Indo-US defence deals over Indo-Russian defence deals? Discuss with reference to stability in the Indo-Pacific region.”
