Modernization of the IAF : Air-to-Air Missiles

The Indian Air Force has signed a defense deal with the Russian Government for the supply of Russian air to air missiles which will be used to equip its aircraft fleet. This news comes amid the latest ongoing spree of defense acquisitions which the Indian Air Force is making to make for its shortfall levels in the force.

What has happened?

• The Indian Air Force (IAF) has now signed a deal with the Russian Government to supply more R-27 air-to-air missiles.
• This deal is worth over INR 1500 crore.
• These missiles are to be fitted onto the new Su-30MKI fighter planes already in IAF service (total of 272 planned).
• The R-27 will help improve and increase the strength of the air-to-air combat capability of the Indian Air Force.

Other Acquisitions

Since the Pulwama attack which killed several paramilitary members, the Central government has allowed the emergency powers to the three services (Indian Army, Indian Air Force, Indian Navy) to purchase the equipment which will be required by the forces for protecting the Indian borders with Pakistan.

The ongoing modernization of the IAF

Over the last 50 days, the IAF has signed several deals to acquire new equipment under emergency requirements which were approved by the Defence Ministry. The IAF has currently expended over INR 7,600 crore to procure new missiles such as the Spice-2000 & Strum Ataka ATGMs and also a large number of spares under the emergency procurement route.