Pechora Missile System (S-125 Neva/Pechora): A Strong Pillar of India’s Air Defence

Recently, Bengaluru-based defence equipment manufacturer Alpha Design Technologies Limited (ADTL) has successfully completed a major modernisation (upgrade) program of the Indian Air Force’s Pechora Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM) system. This achievement aligns closely with the Government of India’s policy of indigenisation and modernising legacy military hardware.

What is the Pechora Missile System ?

• The Pechora, officially known as the S-125 Neva/Pechora, is a medium-range surface-to-air missile system originally developed by the Soviet Union.
• Its primary role is to neutralise aerial threats flying at low to medium altitudes.
• The system has been part of India’s air-defence network for several decades and, after upgrades, continues to play an effective operational role.

Key Technical Features

1. Missile and Launcher

• The system consists of radar-guided missile launchers and a fire-control unit.
• It typically employs V-600 series missiles (5V24 / 5V27).

2. Advanced Radar System

• Equipped with the 4R90 “Yatagan” radar.
• The radar uses five parabolic antennas.
• Core functions include:
  • Detection of targets
  • Tracking
  • Target lock-on and guidance

3. Effective Against Low-Altitude Threats

• Especially effective against:
  • Drones
  • Cruise missiles
  • Slow-moving fighter aircraft

4. Capability in Electronic Warfare Environments

• Designed to operate even in heavy electronic warfare (EW) and jamming conditions.
• Can be deployed independently or as part of an integrated air-defence network.

Operational Capabilities

These parameters enable the system to counter threats at both low and medium altitudes.

Significance in the Indian Context

• The upgrade carried out by ADTL:
  • Enhances system reliability
  • Extends its service life
  • Makes it suitable for modern aerial threat environments
• This initiative strongly supports:
  • Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India)
  • Make in India
  • Reduction in defence imports

Overall, the modernised Pechora system continues to strengthen the confirming role of the Indian Air Force in safeguarding India’s airspace.