Defence Ministry signs Rs 858 crore deals for Air Defence Missiles, P-8I aircraft maintenance

New Delhi, Mar 27: The Ministry of Defence on Friday signed contracts worth Rs 858 crore for the procurement of air defence missile systems and maintenance of maritime reconnaissance aircraft, in a move aimed at strengthening India’s military preparedness across land and sea domains. The agreements were formalised at Kartavya Bhawan-2 in New Delhi in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh.

A major portion of the contracts, valued at Rs 445 crore, has been signed with JSC Rosoboronexport for the procurement of the Tunguska Air Defence Missile System for the Indian Army. The Tunguska system is designed to counter a wide range of aerial threats, including aircraft, drones, and cruise missiles. Officials said the induction of these systems will significantly enhance India’s multi-layered air defence network, particularly in the face of evolving aerial warfare challenges. The deal is also expected to further deepen the long-standing strategic defence partnership between India and Russia.

In a parallel development, the Defence Ministry signed a Rs 413 crore contract with Boeing India Defence Private Limited for depot-level inspection and maintenance of the Indian Navy’s P-8I long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft. The contract has been awarded under the “Buy Indian” category with 100% indigenous content, marking a significant push towards domestic defence capabilities. It will ensure that maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) of the P-8I fleet is carried out within India, reducing dependence on foreign facilities. The P-8I aircraft, a critical asset for maritime surveillance and anti-submarine warfare, plays a key role in safeguarding India’s interests in the Indian Ocean region.

Officials said the in-country MRO capability aligns with the government’s broader vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and the “Make in India” initiative, aimed at building a robust domestic defence ecosystem. The twin agreements underscore a dual approach—leveraging strategic international partnerships while simultaneously strengthening indigenous defence infrastructure. With increasing regional security challenges, these acquisitions and maintenance initiatives are expected to enhance operational readiness and ensure sustained capability for both the Indian Army and Navy.