What exactly is air defence? At its core, it intercepts incoming aerial threats such as aircraft, drones, or missiles. But, achieving this requires sophisticated technology and coordination.

So, why do you need a wide range of air missile systems? What different air defence systems do we have, and is the Russian-made S-400 system, hailed for its advanced capabilities and 450-kilometer range, our best?

Host Dev Goswami and Shiv Aroor explain the concept, with Shiv elaborating on the country's multi-layered air defence, which consists of concentric protective circles with varying ranges and capabilities.

The two look at the many surface-to-air based air defence systems that are operated by the Indian military and illustrate how the setup functions in real time. The episode also examines the complicated interplay between the Indian Army, Air Force and Navy when it comes to the command and control of these varied systems.

Also on this episode is an unsparing examination of the unfortunate incident of an Indian air defence system shooting down the military’s own helicopter, leading the deaths of six Indian Air Force personnel and one civilian the day after the Balakot airstrike. What went wrong on that fateful day? This episode brings you the answers. Tune in!

Produced by Anna Priydarshini

Sound mix by Sachin Dwivedi