India Signs Twin Defence Deals Worth ₹858 Crore to Boost Air and Maritime Capabilities

The Defence Ministry has signed two contracts worth ₹858 crore to strengthen India’s air defence and naval surveillance, enhancing operational readiness and supporting indigenous maintenance capabilities under key national initiatives.

March 28, 2026 | New Delhi In a significant move to enhance national security, the Ministry of Defence has finalised two major contracts worth ₹858 crore aimed at strengthening India’s air defence systems and maritime surveillance capabilities. The agreements were signed in New Delhi in the presence of senior defence officials. The first contract, valued at ₹445 crore, has been signed with Russia’s Rosoboronexport for the procurement of Tunguska air defence missile systems for the Indian Army. These advanced systems are designed to counter a wide range of aerial threats, including aircraft, drones, and cruise missiles, thereby reinforcing India’s multi-layered air defence network.

In a parallel development, a second contract worth ₹413 crore has been awarded to Boeing India Defence Private Limited for the maintenance and inspection of the Indian Navy’s P-8I long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft. This agreement, executed under the “Buy Indian” category with 100% indigenous content, will facilitate in-country maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services for the fleet. Officials stated that the P-8I aircraft play a crucial role in maritime surveillance and anti-submarine warfare operations in the Indian Ocean region. Ensuring their timely maintenance is vital for sustaining naval readiness and operational efficiency.

The defence ministry noted that both deals align with the government’s broader push towards self-reliance under the “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” initiative, aiming to boost domestic capabilities in defence production and maintenance. Experts believe that such dual-track investments strengthening both offensive and maintenance capabilities are essential for maintaining a robust and responsive defence infrastructure. The agreements also underline India’s continued strategic cooperation with global partners while simultaneously promoting indigenous capabilities.

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