In a strategic move to enhance its military capabilities, India is set to acquire a batch of Igla-S hand-held anti-aircraft missiles from Russia. Sources reveal that this procurement aims to bolster the combat readiness of Army units deployed in sensitive forward locations. Moreover, there are plans to explore the production of these Russian missile systems within India as part of the Make-in-India initiative.
Use of the Igla-S man-portable air defense system (MANPADS) by the Air Force, Navy, and Army is already underway. These missiles have a five to six kilometer range and are made to engage and destroy opposing helicopters and airplanes with efficiency. The current agreement, which was signed almost five months ago, shows India’s dedication to strengthening its defenses.
These newly acquired Igla-S missiles will replace the older Igla variants that were inducted into the Army back in the early 1990s. The exact quantity of missiles being procured has not been disclosed. This development underscores India’s ongoing efforts to modernize its military assets and maintain a robust defense infrastructure.
Image Source: www.eurasiantimes.com
