India and Russia have advanced talks on the possible acquisition of Pantsir-S1 anti-aircraft missile-gun systems to protect the S-400. This was reported by the Indian publication IDRW, citing its own sources.
The negotiations began after India received a price offer from Russia for the supply of five more S-400 squadrons. Five more systems have already been contracted, four of which are in the delivery stage.
The Pantsir-S1 is proposed for use as a close-in defense echelon for the S-400. It should cover the most vulnerable elements of the complex, including the 92N6E illumination and guidance radar, the 91N6E detection radar, as well as the 5P85TE2 and 5P85SE2 transporter-erector-launchers.
According to IDRW, S-400 interceptor missiles have a limited engagement range and are not always effective against small, low-flying, or stealthy targets. This includes small drones, loitering munitions, and cruise missiles.
The Pantsir-S1 in such a scheme should cover precisely this close-in zone. The complex is equipped with 12 radio-command missiles with a range of up to 20–30 km and two 30-mm automatic cannons capable of hitting targets at a distance of up to 4 km. In addition, the Pantsir-S1 should physically cover the S-400's radar installations and command posts.