Anti-drone shield for S-400: Moscow offers India a new Pantsir configuration

Integration will provide close-range protection and automatic response to swarm attacks

The Russian side has proposed the integration of the Pantsir-S anti-aircraft missile and gun system with a new drone protection module to strengthen Indian S-400 air defense systems. This involves expanding the anti-drone perimeter, which can be integrated into India's existing air defense architecture amidst the growing threat of small UAVs and FPV drones. This was reported by IDRW.

The initiative is seen as a response to the accelerating development of unmanned attack vehicles, where classic long-range air defense systems do not always provide effective engagement of small targets at low altitudes. The proposed Pantsir-S with an updated drone countermeasure module is intended to close this gap – providing close-range protection and automatic response to swarm attacks.

According to the source, this is not just about supplying equipment, but about an extended configuration of the complex with an emphasis on detecting, tracking, and engaging stealthy aerial targets.

In fact, the proposal fits into a broader trend: major countries are strengthening multi-layered air defense, where long-range systems are supplemented by specialized "anti-drone" modules with a short range.

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