India’s 2018 decision to acquire Russia’s S-400 Triumf air defense system over the U.S. THAAD marked a major shift in its strategic defense outlook. Citing its versatility, Sputnik India notes the S-400’s modular design allows integration with various systems and effective engagement of aircraft, UAVs, and ballistic missiles.
While THAAD specializes in high-altitude ballistic missile interception, the S-400 offers broader operational flexibility. Its multi-radar compatibility and layered defense structure enable a unified response across multiple threat dimensions—making it a more adaptable solution compared to THAAD’s narrower focus.
