Announcements of the planned ammunition purchase had already appeared in the media at the end of 2025. The transaction is to cover 288 missiles, including 120 shorter-range effectors and 168 longer-range effectors, with a value of approximately 10,000 crore INR.
The ammunition is to be acquired through an accelerated procedure due to the need to replenish stocks following last year’s clashes with Pakistan during Operation Sindoor. The fast-tracked process reflects operational requirements linked to those engagements.
In addition, India intends to procure a greater number of air defence systems from Russia. So far, it has received three of the five S-400 regiments ordered in 2018, with deliveries expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
Talks are also under way regarding the acquisition of an additional five regiments. Alongside them, New Delhi plans to purchase Pantsir systems, which would enable the creation of a layered air and missile defence structure based on Russian-produced systems.
There have also been reports of India’s interest in the S-500 system. These developments indicate a continued focus on expanding and deepening air defence capabilities through cooperation with Russia.
Source: Hindustan Times.
