Indian Army to Receive Igla-S Air Defence Systems Assembled in India

The Indian Army is set to bolster its air defence capabilities with the arrival of Russian Igla-S systems, partly assembled in India, marking a stride towards self-reliance. This acquisition, alongside the resolution of payment issues with Russia, underscores India's commitment to modernizing its armed forces and securing its borders.

In a significant stride towards enhancing its air defence capabilities, the Indian Army is poised to receive the Russian Igla-S very short-range air defence systems (VSHORAD). This procurement, set to bolster the nation's defence posture, holds particular importance as it addresses critical gaps in countering low-flying aerial threats such as aircraft, helicopters, and drones at close range.

The acquisition encompasses 48 launchers, 100 missiles, and essential ancillary equipment, including night sights and a testing station. Notably, the Igla-S system, a shoulder-fired missile solution, is being partly assembled in India by Adani Defence Systems and Technologies Limited (ADSTL) under a technology transfer agreement with Russia's Rosoboronexport. This move signifies a pivotal step towards self-reliance in defence production, with certain components being assembled domestically.

The impending delivery of these Igla-S systems, expected by the end of May, follows the resolution of a longstanding payments issue between India and Russia, which had previously hindered several defence deals. This breakthrough, facilitated through the use of national currencies, is anticipated to pave the way for smoother future collaborations in defence procurement.

Alongside the Igla-S acquisition, the Indian Army is also set to receive the first of two Israeli Hermes-900 Medium Altitude Long Endurance Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) next month. These developments, coupled with ongoing efforts to develop indigenous defence systems, underscore India's steadfast commitment to modernizing its armed forces and safeguarding its security amidst a dynamic geopolitical landscape.

In summary, the acquisition of the Igla-S VSHORAD systems heralds a significant milestone in India's quest for enhanced air defence capabilities. With a focus on domestic assembly and collaboration with international partners, the nation is poised to reinforce its defence infrastructure while advancing towards greater self-reliance in defence production.