In a significant move to bolster India’s air defence capabilities, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has approved the purchase of 288 S-400 missiles from Russia. The ₹10,000 crore deal, which includes both short-range and long-range missiles, comes at a time when India is enhancing its defence systems to counter emerging aerial threats, including kamikaze drones. This decision was made following an Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) granted by the DAC, a key step in India’s defence procurement process.
The Details of the S-400 Acquisition
The approved procurement includes 120 short-range missiles and 168 long-range missiles, which will be acquired through the Fast Track Procedure (FTP), ensuring a swift and efficient acquisition process. These missiles will further strengthen India’s air defence network, which has already been significantly upgraded with previous S-400 purchases from Russia.
India is also set to receive two more S-400 systems in June and November this year, as part of an earlier contract. The S-400 is renowned for its ability to intercept a variety of threats, including ballistic missiles, fighter jets, and even hypersonic missiles, making it one of the most advanced air defence systems globally.
The Need for Enhanced Aerial Defence
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has been at the forefront of pushing for more advanced defence systems. Apart from the ongoing S-400 acquisition, the IAF is making a case for the purchase of five additional S-400 systems and the Pantsir short-range missile system from Russia. The Pantsir system, which is specifically effective in countering armed and kamikaze drones, would complement the S-400 systems, creating a multi-layered defence shield capable of neutralising aerial threats from across the border.
The integration of both the S-400 and Pantsir systems would provide India with an advanced two-layered defence mechanism, enabling the country to protect its airspace against a wide range of aerial threats.
The Defence Procurement Process
India’s defence acquisition process is known for its rigor and extensive oversight. It begins with a statement of case, which outlines the operational requirements and justifications for procurement. The Defence Procurement Board, chaired by the defence secretary, thoroughly examines these proposals before moving them to the DAC for AoN approval. Following the AoN, detailed cost negotiations are conducted with the vendor, and once financial approvals are granted, the proposal is presented to the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) for final clearance.
This comprehensive process ensures that all acquisitions are scrutinized at every step, providing accountability and transparency in the defence procurement system.
Other Major Approvals by the Defence Ministry
On Thursday, in addition to the S-400 missile deal, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also granted AoN for several other major proposals, collectively valued at ₹3.60 lakh crore. These proposals include the procurement of Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft, combat missiles, and Air-Ship-Based High Altitude Pseudo-Satellite systems for the Indian Air Force. These strategic acquisitions will further strengthen India’s military capabilities, enabling the country to stay ahead in an increasingly complex security environment.
The Defence Acquisition Council’s approval of 288 S-400 missiles is a significant step in India’s pursuit of modernising its defence infrastructure and ensuring national security. With the inclusion of additional missile systems like the Pantsir and the ongoing acquisition of more S-400 systems, India is building a robust and multi layered air defence network capable of countering diverse aerial threats. As the global security landscape evolves, these advancements will help India maintain its strategic edge and enhance its ability to safeguard its airspace from potential threats.
