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How Can Russia Help India Build Its 'Sudarshan Chakra' Air Defence Shield

© Sputnik / Sergey Malgavko / Go to the mediabankAnti-aircraft defense system S-400 Triumph
Anti-aircraft defense system S-400 Triumph  - Sputnik India, 1920, 28.08.2025
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India is embarking on an ambitious project to develop its own missile defense system, called the Sudarshan Chakra, which aims to counter evolving missile threats and protect the nation’s skies.
This initiative aims to establish a comprehensive multi-layered defense shield by 2035, encompassing strategic and vital civilian and military areas across the country.
Igor Korotchenko, editor in chief of "National Defense" magazine, Director of the Center for analysis of world arms trade and military analyst delves into the strategic importance of this development, highlighting its geopolitical and security implications.

Why Now?

One major driver is the missile arms race in the Indo-Pacific region, where multiple countries are rapidly advancing their missile technologies, including tactical and operational-class missiles.
"India's geopolitical competitors in the region have corresponding missile systems, including those equipped with nuclear warheads. In this regard, India's desire to have a corresponding aerospace shield is understandable," Korotchenko explains.
The recent India-Pakistan conflict also highlighted the need for effective air and missile defense systems. The conflict underscored the need for modernization and further development of India’s defense framework, pushing the government to prioritize the development of Sudarshan Chakra to safeguard its future security.

Russia’s Role in India’s Defense Plans

Russia has long been a key defense and security partner for India, and Korotchenko believes that the two countries’ partnership is vital for the success of India’s missile defense goals.
"Russia is in the process of delivery of five regimental sets of the S-400 air defense system to India, with New Delhi planning to acquire 3-5 additional sets in the near future," he notes.
The S-400 system’s advanced capabilities in intercepting both aerial and ballistic missile threats make it a cornerstone of India’s defense strategy.
The integration of missile defense systems with advanced technologies like the S-400 — and potentially S-500 in the future — will enhance India’s ability to track not just missiles, but also enemy aircraft and drones, making Sudarshan Chakra a truly multi-layered defense system.

India’s Strategic Choice: Russia as the Sole Partner

Korotchenko noted that, given current realities, India will not be able to independently create such an advanced missile defense system.
"India, with all due respect, will not be able to create such a system on its own. It requires two or even three decades of research and development. If India wants to achieve this goal within 10 years, it needs a strategic partner like Russia to jointly develop and build such a system," he says.
Korotchenko emphasises that China’s cooperation is unfeasible due to regional competition, and the US cannot be trusted due to the risks of technological dependency and potential disruptions caused by hidden “backdoors” introduced by American.
The successful implementation of Sudarshan Chakra would solidify Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s legacy as a visionary and strategically minded leader, Korotchenko said.
"This is a strategic level task. If it is solved, and I am sure it can be solved, then Narendra Modi will go down in Indian history for generations to come as an outstanding statesman and military leader who provided an aerospace shield for India.," he asserts.
As India embarks on this critical mission, the strategic partnership with Russia remains pivotal in ensuring the country’s air and missile defense capabilities are future-proofed.
Through continued collaboration and reliance on Russian technology, India has the potential to strengthen its defense and safeguard its sovereignty for generations to come.
Russian S-400 anti-aircraft missile systems move toward Red Square to attend a Victory Day military parade in Moscow, Russia, Tuesday, May 9, 2023, marking the 78th anniversary of the end of World War II. - Sputnik India, 1920, 27.06.2025
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