India has cleared a major defence acquisition push, approving the procurement of five S-400 missile systems from Russia and 60 medium transport aircraft at a total cost of ₹2.38 lakh crore. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved the proposals, which also include the procurement of remotely piloted 'Strike aircraft' and overhaul of Sukhoi-30 aero engines for the Indian Air Force.
The IAF is procuring the military transport aircraft to replace its aging fleet of Soviet-era AN-32 and IL-76 planes. The top contenders for the multi-billion deal are Lockheed Martin's C-130 J Super Hercules, Embraer's KC-390 aircraft, and Airbus Defence and Space's A-400M plane.
The decision to procure an additional batch of five S-400 air defence missile systems came months after their capability was proved during Operation Sindoor. The missile system played a crucial role in India's dominance over Pakistan during the May 7-10 hostilities last year.
The DAC also green-lighted the procurement of Dhanush gun system for the Indian Army and heavy duty air cushion vehicles for the Indian Coast Guard.
The Defence Ministry confirmed that the DAC cleared the procurement of S-400 missile systems and military transport aircraft, but did not specify the exact quantities. However, authoritative sources said the approval covers five S-400 units and 60 transport aircraft.
