By Our Correspondent

National News – India has officially approved defence contracts totaling $25 billion, including purchases of additional Russian-made S-400 long-range missile systems.

The Defence Acquisition Council, led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, authorized the deals in a statement issued Friday, emphasizing the strategic importance of strengthening India’s military capabilities.

The approvals cover both air and ground forces, with advanced weaponry, aircraft, and drones included in the procurement list.

The Defence Ministry confirmed that 55 proposals valued at 6.73 trillion rupees ($71 billion) have been cleared so far in the 2025–26 fiscal year.

Capital procurement contracts worth 2.28 trillion rupees ($25 billion) mark the largest single-year investment in India’s defence sector.

For the Indian Air Force, new medium transport aircraft will replace aging AN-32 and IL-76 planes, while Su-30 fighter jets will receive engine upgrades.

Armed drones, known as Remotely Piloted Strike Aircraft, are also being procured for both surveillance and combat operations.

Russia continues to play a key role in India’s defence strategy, despite recent expansions of procurement from the United States, France, and Israel.

The S-400 systems are specifically intended to counter long-range aerial threats, enhancing India’s air defence readiness.

The Army will benefit from advanced air defence tracking systems, armour-piercing tank ammunition, improved battlefield radios, artillery, and aerial surveillance platforms.

These purchases are part of India’s broader plan to modernize its military and maintain regional security.

By investing in high-tech weapons systems, India aims to ensure readiness against potential threats while diversifying its defence procurement sources.

The council’s approvals also underscore the nation’s commitment to strengthening defence infrastructure and operational capability across all military branches.