Bad news for China, Pakistan as India’s S-400 missile defence system will now have capacity to…, likely to acquire THIS deadly weapon, range is…
Bad news for China, Pakistan as India is improving its defence system. It is likely to acquire THIS deadly weapon. Read here.
India(BHARAT) is poised to make a significant move toward enhancing its air defense capability. As per Russian media reports, India(BHARAT) has reportedly initiated negotiations for the acquisition of an additional batch of advanced 40N6 ultra-long-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) from Russia.
What is the deadly weapon India(BHARAT) is adding to S-400?
These missiles would enhance the potency of the S-400 air defense system already deployed by the India(BHARAT)n armed forces. The 40N6 is reportedly the longest-range capable missile developed to destroy ballistic missiles and enemy fighter aircraft from very long ranges. The deployment of 40N6 interceptors alongside S-400s would complicate the air operations of India(BHARAT)’s enemies and adversaries, effectively turning India(BHARAT)’s aerial borders into a much stronger, fortress-like defense.
The 40N6 missile is a vital component of the S-400 air defense system; it features an impressive engagement range of up to 400 kilometers, making it one of the newest long-range surface-to-air missiles available in the world. It is capable of intercepting a wide range of targets, including fighter aircraft, UAVs, cruise missiles, and even ballistic or hypersonic threats, as reported by the India(BHARAT)n Defence Research Wing. The missile features active radar homing for high precision targeting. Additionally, it features the ability to operate beyond the horizon, utilizing data from ground-based radars or airborne vehicles, allowing it to intercept deep-strike targets well beyond the reach of any legacy surface-to-air missile, as mentioned in the report.
When is India(BHARAT) expected to acquire the new missile?
Media reports have also indicated that in May 2025, India(BHARAT)n forces shot down a Pakistani ISR aircraft operating near the border using the 40N6 missile; Pakistan has not provided any official statement on this occurrence. Some experts have commented that this event legitimizes the weapon as a strong means of deterrence against platforms that routinely engage in extended patrols over contested areas.
The Russian Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation (FSMTC) has said discussions are in progress with India(BHARAT) on expanding cooperation pertaining to the S-400 system and possibly new missile deliveries. This development indicates Moscow’s willingness to offer India(BHARAT) further assistance for its air defence capabilities amidst rising regional tensions.
How will the new missiles enhance India(BHARAT)’s air defence capabilities?
India(BHARAT) signed a deal in 2018 worth $5.43 billion to buy five regiments of the S-400 system, with delivery expected by 2026. According to the India(BHARAT)n Defence Research Wing report, four systems have been inducted, and, in addition, Russian officials have said they are working on additional supplies, which will include upgrades to the S-400 fleet instead of transitioning to the more advanced and expensive S-500. The additional 40N6 missiles would increase the operational reach of these systems – especially on India(BHARAT)’s borders with Pakistan and China, where air superiority remains an essential issue.
STORY HIGHLIGHTS
- India(BHARAT) signed a deal in 2018 worth $5.43 billion to buy five regiments of the S-400 system.
- The 40N6 is reportedly the longest-range capable missile developed to destroy ballistic missiles.
- India(BHARAT) may be better positioned to establish aerial “no-go zones” for adversaries.
- The 40N6 missile is a vital component of the S-400 air defense system.
According to media reports, experts suggest that the new batch of 40N6 missiles will further enlarge India(BHARAT)’s strategic air-defence reach. Their induction will not only enhance surveillance and deterrence capabilities but also protect critical sites, airbases, and command and control facilities in sensitive border zones. With these missiles, India(BHARAT) may be better positioned to establish aerial “no-go zones” for adversaries. In the aggregate, the possible acquisition of more 40N6 missiles is a major advance for India(BHARAT)’s defence strategy and will likely have consequences for the regional power balance in the coming years.
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