In the wake of the ongoing Operation Sindoor and Pakistan’s attempted missile-drone strike on multiple Indian military installations, India’s S-400 air defence system stood tall — successfully neutralising the incoming threats. Meanwhile, several of Pakistan’s Chinese-origin HQ-9 air defence systems were reportedly struck, including one key installation in Lahore, according to official sources.

This contrast in performance has reignited comparisons between the Indian Air Force’s Russian-made S-400 Triumf and Pakistan’s HQ-9/P systems developed by China.

S-400 vs HQ-9: The critical differences

Feature S-400 (India) HQ-9/P (Pakistan)
Max Targets Tracked 100 100
Max Targets Engaged 36 8–10
Radar Detection Range 600 km 150–200 km
Engagement Range 40–400 km 25–125 km
Missile Guidance Active/semi-active radar, TVM Semi-active radar, TVM
Battle-Tested Yes (Russia-Ukraine conflict) No

What makes the S-400 more effective?

  • Superior Range: The S-400 can detect threats up to 600 km away and neutralise targets from 400 km, far surpassing the HQ-9’s best range of 125 km.

  • Target Saturation Capability: The S-400 can simultaneously engage 36 targets — including drones, fighter jets, and ballistic missiles — compared to HQ-9’s 8–10.

  • Advanced Radar Suite: Its radars can track 300 targets concurrently and detect stealth aircraft and low-altitude missiles in electronic warfare environments.

  • Rapid Mobility: Mounted on wheeled vehicles, the system can be relocated quickly and launched within 5–10 minutes.

  • Battle Proven: Unlike HQ-9, the S-400 has seen extensive real-world deployment and success in active combat zones.

About Pakistan’s HQ-9 Air Defence System

  • Developed by China, the HQ-9 offers radar detection up to 200 km.

  • It uses cold launch technology and radar-homing missiles.

  • However, its missile variety, radar range, and combat experience fall short compared to the S-400.

  • Reports suggest one of these systems was neutralised by India in Lahore during the latest round of counter-attacks.

In conclusion, while both India and Pakistan rely heavily on surface-to-air missile systems for aerial defence, the Indian S-400 Triumf — referred to as “Sudarshan Chakra” — holds a significant edge in terms of range, target engagement, radar sophistication, and real-world validation.

As Operation Sindoor unfolds, this technological edge has translated into strategic advantage on the ground.