India signs deal to acquire R-27 Air-to-Air Missiles from Russia

India has signed Rs.1,500 crore deal to acquire R-27 air-to-air missiles from Russia for equipping Su-30MKI combat aircraft fleet of the Indian Air Force and for boosting its capabilities in beyond visual range warfare.

Key Highlights

R-27 air-to-air missiles have been acquired under 10-I projects which mandate all the 3 services (Indian Army, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force) to maintain critical weapon systems and spares for a specified minimum period called as War Wastage Reserve (WWR).

In almost past 2 months Indian Air Force (IAF) has signed deals worth over Rs.7,600 crore for acquiring equipment under emergency requirements provisions approved by Union Defence Ministry in aftermath of Pulwama Attack. These Rs.7,600 crore has been spent by IAF in procuring missiles like Spice-2000, Strum Ataka ATGMs and a large number of spares under emergency procurement route.

Emergency Powers: After Pulwama attack in which 44 CRPF personnel were killed, Central government had given emergency powers to 3 services to buy whatever equipment is required by them for safeguarding borders with Pakistan. Under these powers given, security forces can buy equipment of their choice within 3 months at cost of up to Rs.300 crore per case.

About R-27 Missile

It is a medium-to-long-range air-to-air missile.

It is developed by Russia for its MiG and Sukhoi series of fighter jets.

These Russian missiles with an extended range would give an added capability to Sukhois to take on enemy aircraft at long ranges.

Month: Current Affairs - July, 2019