Video: What Is the S-400? The Missile Shield That Cost Türkiye F-35s
The S-400 Triumf is Russia’s long-range air defense system and the centerpiece of one of the most controversial arms deals of the century. In our latest DefenseandTech video, we explain how it works, who operates it and why it is not invincible.
S-400 at a Glance
- Manufacturer: Almaz-Antey
- In Russian service: since 2007
- NATO reporting name: SA-21 Growler
- Longest-range missile: 40N6, designed to reach targets up to 400 km away
- Radar detection range: roughly 600 km
- Targets: aircraft, cruise missiles, drones and ballistic missiles
How the S-400 Works
An S-400 battalion combines long-range surveillance radars, an engagement radar, a command post and mobile launchers that each carry four missile tubes. By mixing missiles of different ranges, from the short-range 9M96 family to the very long-range 40N6, the system can build a layered air defense umbrella hundreds of kilometers wide.
Türkiye, India and the Price of the S-400
Türkiye bought the S-400 for about $2.5 billion and received the first components in 2019. In response, the United States removed Türkiye from the F-35 program and later imposed CAATSA sanctions on its defense procurement agency. India signed a $5.4 billion deal for five squadrons in 2018; known in Indian service as “Sudarshan Chakra,” the system was used in combat in May 2025 during Operation Sindoor, and four of the five squadrons have been delivered, according to public reporting.
Not Invincible
Despite its reputation, the S-400 has been hit repeatedly in the war in Ukraine. Ukrainian drone and missile strikes have destroyed or damaged S-400 radars and launchers in occupied Crimea, showing that even advanced air defenses are vulnerable to well-planned attacks.
Read More
Learn more about the S-400’s maker in our Almaz-Antey company profile, see how India used it in Operation Sindoor, and watch our companion video on the F-35 stealth fighter.
FAQ
What is the S-400?
The S-400 Triumf is a Russian long-range surface-to-air missile system built by Almaz-Antey, in service since 2007.
What is the range of the S-400?
Its longest-range 40N6 missile is designed to reach targets up to 400 km away, and its radars can detect targets at roughly 600 km.
Why was Türkiye removed from the F-35 program?
The United States removed Türkiye from the F-35 program in 2019 after it took delivery of the S-400.
Which countries operate the S-400?
Russia, China, Türkiye and India are among the operators of the S-400.
Sources
- Almaz-Antey, S-400 Triumf system data
- U.S. Department of Defense statements on Türkiye and the F-35 program
- Indian Air Force; public reporting on S-400 deliveries (The Week, India TV, The Print)
- Public reporting on Ukrainian strikes on S-400 systems in Crimea
