Defense Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh on 27 March 2026 in New Delhi signed contracts for the procurement of the Tunguska Air Defense Missile System and the inspection (depot level) of the P8I long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft. Photo: PIB via ANI
The Ministry of Defense on Friday (March 27, 2026) signed contracts worth ₹858 crore for procurement of air defense systems for the Army and maintenance support for the Navy’s reconnaissance fleet, strengthening India’s balanced defense partnership with Russia and the United States.
A contract worth ₹445 million has been signed with the Russian agency JSC Rosoboronexport for the procurement of the Tunguska air defense system for the military. The agreement was signed in the presence of Defense Minister Rajesh Kumar Singh at Kartavya Bhavan. The system is expected to significantly enhance India’s multi-layered capabilities against aerial threats such as aircraft, drones and cruise missiles, while further strengthening the India-Russia strategic defense partnership.
In parallel, the ministry signed a ₹413 million contract with US-based Boeing India Defense Private Limited for depot-level inspection of the Navy’s P-8I long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft under the ‘Buy India category with 100% original content’ category.
Defense Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh signed contracts with Boeing India Defense Private Ltd in Delhi on 27 March 2026 for inspection (stock level) of P8I long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft for the Indian Navy. Photo: PIB via PTI
The contract will enable maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) of the P-8I fleet within the country, enhancing operational readiness in line with the government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India thrusts.
The twin deals underline India’s focus on strengthening its warfighting capabilities while strengthening its domestic defense infrastructure.
Published – 27 March 2026 17:34 IST
