How much does a single S-400 missile cost?
With individual missiles costing between $300,000 and $2 million, the Russian S-400 system offers advanced air defence at a fraction of the $3 billion price tag of a US THAAD battery.
The cost per interceptor
The price of a single S-400 interceptor missile typically ranges from $300,000 (roughly Rs 2.8 crore) to $1 million (roughly Rs 9.5 crore). However, the most advanced versions can cost up to $2 million each.
The expensive 40N6E variant
The system uses multiple missile types, with the 40N6E being the most powerful and expensive. This specific interceptor features a massive 400-kilometre range and accounts for the higher $1-2 million price tag.
Why is it so costly?
Each missile is equipped with highly advanced active radar sensors, precise navigation systems, and sophisticated engines. This complex technology guarantees extreme accuracy against fast-moving targets, significantly driving up the manufacturing cost.
Battery cost vs Western systems
While individual missiles are costly, an entire S-400 battery is priced around $500 million, making it vastly cheaper than its Western rivals. For comparison, a single American THAAD battery can cost up to $3 billion.
The drone defence dilemma
Because a single S-400 missile costs at least Rs 2.5 crore, using it to intercept a Rs 16 lakh ($20,000) kamikaze drone is an economically losing strategy. This cost disparity forces militaries to deploy cheaper systems to handle small drones.
)
)
)
)
)