Missile S-400 Triumf (SA-21 Growler)

Development of the S-400 began in the early 1980s as a replacement for the S-200. The program was initially rejected due to cost but was revived in the late 1980s under the codename Triumf to target aircraft, cruise missiles, and stealth platforms. Following the dissolution of the Soviet Union, the Russian Air Force announced the system in 1993. Testing occurred at Kapustin Yar in 1999. The system was approved for service on April 28, 2007, and entered combat duty on August 6, 2007.

The S-400 is a mobile, multi-channel surface-to-air and anti-ballistic missile system. It utilizes several interceptor types, including the 48N6, 9M96, and 40N6E series. Guidance is provided via semi-active radar homing or active radar homing depending on the missile model. Interceptors are equipped with directed explosion warheads for aerial targets, while newer anti-ballistic variants employ kinetic or inert destruction methods. The system architecture includes a command and control center, panoramic detection radars, and multi-functional tracking radars. Transporter-erector-launchers typically carry four missiles, though larger long-range interceptors limit capacity to two missiles per vehicle. The system is capable of engaging aircraft, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles, and has been adapted for ground-to-ground strikes. It can be integrated with other platforms such as the Pantsir and Tor-M1.

The system is widely deployed by Russia and has been exported to Algeria, Belarus, China, Turkey, and India. During the Syrian Civil War, units were activated at Khmeimim Air Base and Masyaf starting in 2015. In the Russo-Ukrainian War, the system has been used for aerial engagements and ground-to-ground strikes. Ukrainian forces have reported the destruction of S-400 components, including radars and launchers, through the use of ATACMS, HIMARS, and drones in Crimea and Belgorod. In Indian service, the system is designated Sudarshan Chakra. During the 2025 India–Pakistan conflict, Indian officials reported the destruction of multiple aircraft, including an AWACS platform, while Pakistan claimed the destruction of system components at Adampur Air Force Station.