The latest contracts underline India’s dual focus on operational modernisation and self-reliance in defence sustainment.
The Ministry of Defence signed two contracts worth ₹858 crore to enhance air defence and maritime surveillance on March 27, 2026, in New Delhi.
Tunguska Air Defence Missile System
The Ministry of Defence signed a ₹4.45 billion contract with Russia’s JSC Rosoboronexport to procure Tunguska Air Defence Missile Systems for the Indian Army. Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh attended the signing.
The induction of these advanced systems is expected to significantly improve India’s multi-layered air defence by offering enhanced protection against modern aerial threats such as aircraft, drones, and cruise missiles. Practically, this means greater interception capability for the Indian Army at shorter response times during emergencies. The agreement also demonstrates consistent strategic cooperation with Russia, potentially expediting system upgrades and maintenance support.
Inspection of P8I Aircraft
In a separate agreement, the Ministry of Defence signed a ₹4.13 billion contract with Boeing India Defence Private Ltd for depot-level inspection of the Indian Navy’s P8I long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft.
By awarding the project under the Buy Indian category with 100% indigenous content, this move directly supports domestic industry growth and reduces logistics delays. This will enhance the P8I fleet’s operational readiness through timely, in-country maintenance, increasing the number of available aircraft for missions, strengthening India’s surveillance and anti-submarine capabilities, and supporting the Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India programmes.
