India to purchase Russian S-400 Triumf defense system

NEW DELHI, Dec. 18 (UPI) -- The Indian government has approved the purchase of five units of Russian-made S-400 Triumf air defense systems.

The S-400 Triumf air defense system is designed to intercept and destroy airborne targets at an effective range of 250 miles. The system is capable of engaging up to six targets at once, including enemy aircraft, incoming missiles, and unmanned combat aerial vehicles. The purchase of approval comes ahead of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to Russia at the end of December, according to Hindustan Times.

The S-400 Triumf is a follow-up to the S-300, featuring a faster firing rate. Russian defense officials consider it to be the most modern air defense system in its arsenal. If the purchase moves forward, India will become the system's second buyer after China.

However, Indian defense sources remain uncertain of Moscow's intentions, with defense ministry sources calling Moscow's response "lukewarm," Defense News reports.

In addition to moving forward with plans to purchase the missile system from Russia, India is in the process of developing its own anti-missile system, including the Prithvi Air Defense system for high-altitude interceptions, and Advanced Air Defense system for low-altitude interception.