In recent news, the inaugural batch of Indian military specialists is poised to journey to Moscow, Russia, for their training programs on the S-400 Triumf missile defence system.
Unpacking the Background
India sealed the deal for the S-400 Triumf missile system in October 2018 with Russia, in a transaction worth 5.43 billion USD. This took place despite resistance from the United States and looming CAATSA (Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act) sanctions.
About the S-400 Triumf Missile System
Russia’s S-400 Triumf is a state-of-the-art, mobile surface-to-air missile system (SAM). This system is considered to be the most advanced long-range SAM currently operational, surpassing even the US-built Terminal High Altitude Area Defense system (THAAD) in capabilities. The S-400 Triumf can neutralize all classifications of aerial targets including aircraft, UAVs, as well as ballistic and cruise missiles up to 400km away and at an altitude of approximately 30km. Furthermore, it can concurrently track 100 airborne threats and engage six of them.
The Significance of this Acquisition for India
Interestingly, China is also procuring the same system from Russia, having signed a deal in 2015 to secure six S-400 battalions. China commenced receiving its delivery in January 2018, and the incorporation of S-400 into its defence arsenal has caused significant shifts in regional power dynamics. However, India’s acquisition takes on particular significance in terms of countering threats in a potential two-front war, inclusive of advanced F-35 US fighter jets.
Defence Cooperation – A Strong Link in India-Russia Relations
Defence collaboration is a cornerstone of the strategic partnership between India and Russia. Annual meetings between the Defence Ministers are held alternately in Russia and India to review ongoing projects and other areas of military cooperation. The High Level Monitoring Committee (HLMC), established in 2008, oversees these collaborations.
Developments in India and Russia’s Defence Cooperation
The post-Cold War period has seen fluctuations in the economic relationship between India and Russia, but defence cooperation remains steadfast. Despite a slump in 2013-14, the crucial S-400 deal was initiated amidst CAATSA sanctions. Notwithstanding India diversifying its suppliers to include Israel, US, and France, Russia continues to be a major supplier. Recent events fortifying this partnership include approvals for acquiring the Mig29 and Su30 MKI fighter aircraft from Russia worth 2.4 billion USD, progress towards an AK-203 rifle contract, and supply of 200 Ka-226T utility helicopters.
The Journey from Importing Weapons to Joint Production
Over time, the military technical co-operation has progressed from a buyer-seller framework to joint research, design, development and production of advanced military platforms. The Brahmos cruise missile exemplifies this trend.
Joint Military Exercises
Exercise INDRA, a joint, tri-service exercise between India and Russia, is illustrative of the strong military ties between the two nations.
Russian Military Equipment Utilized by Indian Forces
Russian military equipment, including the navy’s only active aircraft carrier, INS Vikramaditya, and a nuclear attack submarine, Chakra II, is widely deployed by India. The army uses T-90 and T-72 main battle tanks, and the air force operates the Su30 MKI fighter, all of Russian origin.