India-Russia missile deal: The state-of-the-art S-400 Triumph Air Defense System has become the center of discussion at this time for regional defense by India. Because, China and Pakistan are likely to have a secret settlement memorandum, and it is estimated that China may share technical information about S-400 with Pakistan. Some international security analysts have warned that this information can be used to weaken India’s defense system.
According to the International Defense website Bulgarianmilli.com, China and Pakistan are discussing a secret agreement under which China can share data of S-400 system with Pakistan. This may include radar frequencies, interception arguments, system weaknesses, blind spots and ability to react to electronic jamming.
A strategic challenge for India
India bought five S-400 squadrons in a $ 5.43 billion deal with Russia in 2018. Three of these squadrons have already been deployed on the borders of China and Pakistan, while the remaining two squadrons are delayed by the Russian-Ukraine war. The S-400 is considered an important defensive shield in India’s security strategy. But if China informs Pakistan about S-400, it may pose a threat to India’s security through drones, cruise missiles or electronic jamming. This is not only economic loss, but can also pose a serious threat to India’s national security.
Pakistan needs and China’s opportunity
Although Pakistan does not have a system like S-400, knowledge of the operational logic of S-400 can be extremely useful for it in combating India’s air operations. Conflict along the Line of Control, Failing Surgical Strike, Planning Drone Attack-All this could be possible if information about India’s S-400 system was available. China already has an S-400. He bought this system from Russia in 2014. Therefore, they are fully aware of the characteristics and boundaries of S-400 and sharing this data with Pakistan can pose a major threat to India’s air strategy.
Russia’s role and India’s strategic equation
No official clarification has been received from Russia on this issue yet. However, the “final user agreement” is a common condition in international arms transactions. Under this, buyer country cannot share technical information with third party. If China violates the agreement, it can cause tension in Russia-Pakistan relations and India’s trust in Russia can be shaken. In this background, India can strengthen relations with Western countries such as the US, France and Israel regarding future military cooperation, to prevent technology misuse and leakage.
S-400 for India’s security
The S-400 system is an important weapon for India’s security. But the connivance of Pakistan-China has created a new strategic challenge to India. This situation may motivate India to become more transparent, technically more self -sufficient and more collaborative with new partner countries. India needs to get immediate clarity from Russia in this regard and find alternative solutions.
