Russia has agreed to sell its most modern missile defence system to China in a deal over USD 3 billion which could strengthen the world’s largest army’s air defence.

The S-400 is a new generation anti aircraft weapon system which is capable enough for engaging any aerial target as well as cruise and tactical ballistic missiles with a maximum speed of 4.8 km per second.

40N6 missiles of the system can destroy airborne targets at ranges up to 400 km, state-run China Daily reported.

Anatoly Isaikin, chief executive of the Russian state-run arms trader Rosoboronexport, has confirmed that China has a contract with his company for the purchase of the S-400.

“I will not disclose the details of the contract, but yes, China has indeed become the first buyer of this sophisticated Russian air defence system. It underlines once again the strategic level of our relations,” the report quoted Isaikin as saying.