As India and Pakistan face heightened tensions following Operation Sindoor and subsequent Pakistani attempts at retaliation, two advanced missile systems-the Indian Air Force’s S-400 “Sudarshan Chakra” and Pakistan’s Shaheen-3 ballistic missile-have come into sharp focus, symbolising the evolving strategic balance in South Asia.
The Indian Air Force deployed its S-400 air defence systems on Wednesday night and foiled an aerial attack by Pakistan in retaliation for Operation Sindoor.
The Russian-made S-400 systems used in the interception are among the most advanced in the world, capable of tracking targets up to 600 kilometres away and intercepting threats at ranges of up to 400 kilometres.
S-400 Sudarshan Chakra: India’s Missile Shield
India’s S-400 Triumf, dubbed “Sudarshan Chakra” in IAF service, is one of the world’s most advanced air defence systems.
Procured from Russia, India has three regiments operational out of five ordered, each capable of detecting, tracking, and intercepting aircraft, drones, and ballistic or cruise missiles up to 400 km away.
The S-400’s phased-array radar, multiple interceptor missiles, and networked command structure allow it to engage up to 80 targets simultaneously, providing a formidable shield over critical Indian assets.
During recent escalations, the S-400 played a decisive role in foiling Pakistani retaliatory strikes, forcing adversary aircraft and missiles to abort or relocate.
Shaheen-3: Pakistan’s Strategic Reach
Pakistan’s Shaheen-3 is its longest-range ballistic missile, with a reach of 2,750 km-enough to target all of India, including the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
The solid-fuel, road-mobile missile can carry nuclear or conventional warheads and is designed for rapid launch and survivability. Its speed (up to 18 times the speed of sound) and mobility make it a credible deterrent, complicating interception efforts.
The Shaheen-3 is complemented by Pakistan’s MIRV-capable Ababeel, which can deploy multiple warheads to overwhelm missile defences.
While the S-400 gives India a robust, multi-layered defence against aerial threats, the Shaheen-3 extends Pakistan’s strategic reach, ensuring mutual deterrence.
The interplay between these systems shows the high-stakes nature of India-Pakistan military posturing, where technology, readiness, and rapid response shape the evolving security landscape.
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