India is continuously moving towards strengthening its air defence. The Russian Pantsir missile system is considered important for the security of the S-400. Experts say that India should purchase the Pantsir-S1M system as soon as possible, so that it can protect itself from attacks by drones and cruise missiles.

Pakistan misled by S-400 dummy in Operation Sindoor

During Operation Sindoor between India and Pakistan in May 2025, Pakistan attacked S-400 launchers at Adampur airbase in Punjab. But there was no damage, because the Indian Air Force had shifted the original S-400 batteries to another place. The parts that were damaged in the attack were dummies.

Retired IAF pilot and military analyst Vijender K Thakur wrote in an op-ed published on 29 November 2025 that Pakistan did not have up-to-date intelligence on the exact location of the S-400. But in future such help can be received from China or America, hence the security of S-400 is necessary.

What is Pantsir System and why is it important?

According to the Eurasian Times, the Pantsir-S1M is Russia’s short-range air defense system, which protects long-range systems like the S-400. It protects against aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles, drones and precision guided munitions. his-

• Range: 20-30 kilometers
• Height: up to 18 kilometers
• New Missiles: Heavy warhead (25 kg), TKB-1055 ‘Gwozd’ missile is fitted for mini drone. 12 missiles and two 30mm guns (each gun can fire 40 rounds per second).
• Upgraded Radar: Detects targets like GMLRS from double the distance. Everything including mobile and three crew members on one vehicle.

In the Ukraine war, despite the protection of Pantsir, the Russian S-400 was damaged by Ukraine’s Storm Shadow cruise missile and low-flying drone. With the help of NATO intelligence, the drones dodge Pantsir and attack the S-400.

What is the current status of the Pantsir deal between India and Russia?

This deal is to increase self-reliance under Make in India. India has been trying to acquire Pantsir for a long time…

• August 2020: Russian media Izvestia reported that many countries, including India, showed interest in the Pantsir-S1M.
• April 2024: Russia had announced to double pantsir production for its forces.
• November 2024: India and Russia had signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the development and production of customized variants of Pantsir.
• Earlier reports (2023-2024): Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and Russia’s Rosoboronexport signed an agreement on manufacturing, technology transfer and joint development at the IRIGC meeting in Goa.

What is the opinion of experts on this deal?

Vijender Thakur says that India had purchased five regiments of S-400 in 2018, but without Pantsir this decision was wrong. This happened due to lack of budget, but now Pantsir should be achieved rapidly. The combination of S-400 and Pantsir is most effective against air threats coming from the border.

India currently has three regiments of S-400, two more are yet to arrive. Pantsir is necessary before the next conflict, so that the S-400 remains safe from low-altitude drone and missile attacks. This step will make India’s air defense layered and stronger.