“India Plans Rs 2.38 Lakh Crore Defence Upgrade from Russia with More S-400s, Drones, and Guns”

India Greenlights Rs 2.38 Lakh Crore Defence Upgrade from Russia, Expands Air and Army Arsenal

Following Operation Sindoor, India has approved defence procurements worth Rs 2.38 lakh crore for the Army and Air Force, including five additional S-400 Triumf missile systems from Russia. The Indian Air Force will also receive remotely piloted strike aircraft, medium transport planes to replace AN-32 and IL-76 fleets, and upgraded Su-30 engines to extend their service life.

A defence ministry official said, “The S-400 systems proved operationally effective in intercepting threats. Another five units will strengthen air defence along China and Pakistan borders.” India had signed a $5.43 billion deal in 2018 for five S-400 squadrons; three have been delivered, while two were delayed due to the Ukraine conflict.

Army approvals include the Dhanush gun system, an air defence tracked system, high-capacity radio relay units, and armour-piercing tank ammunition, enhancing long-range strike capabilities across varied terrains.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh noted that 2025–26 has seen record approvals, with 55 proposals worth Rs 6.73 lakh crore accepted and contracts for 503 proposals totalling Rs 2.28 lakh crore signed—the highest ever in a single financial year.