India's Layered Air Defence Architecture
India's air defence is built around a layered concept — different systems covering different ranges and altitudes, operating in an integrated fashion. The S-400 sits at the top of this architecture, providing the longest-range and highest-altitude coverage.
- Long-range (400 km): S-400 Triumf (Russia) — under delivery
- Medium-range: MRSAM / Barak-8 (India-Israel joint development, inducted from 2017); Akash Missile System (indigenously developed by DRDO, in service since 2014)
- Short-range: Spyder (Israel, Low Level Quick Reaction Missile)
- Very short range: ZU-23-2 guns, Tunguska, Igla-S MANPADS
- India is also developing the XRSAM (Extended Range Surface-to-Air Missile) under DRDO for future requirements.
- The IAF operates 10+ air defence squadrons integrating these various platforms.
● Tracked since March 26, 2026 · last seen July 23, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes
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