New Delhi, India (Agencies): India is on the verge of finalizing a landmark $4 billion defense agreement with Russia to acquire an advanced long-range early warning radar system. This deal is expected to significantly bolster India’s air defense infrastructure amid regional security challenges.
The radar system, part of Russia’s renowned Voronezh series manufactured by Almaz-Antey Corporation, boasts the capability to identify and track threats, including ballistic missiles and aircraft, over distances of up to 8,000 kilometers. This extensive coverage will enhance India’s surveillance capabilities, previously accessible only to a select group of countries.
The acquisition aligns with India’s ongoing efforts to modernize its air defense infrastructure and promote self-reliance through the “Make in India” initiative. Approximately 60% of the radar system’s components will be manufactured domestically, involving Indian offset partners.
The radar system is expected to be installed in Chitradurga, Karnataka, a strategically important location already home to advanced defense and aerospace facilities. This move will provide critical early warnings of potential threats, extending India’s surveillance reach well beyond its borders.
The development comes as Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh visits Russia for pivotal bilateral discussions. Singh is scheduled to co-chair a meeting on military-technical cooperation with his Russian counterpart, Andrey Belousov, to review defense ties and ongoing joint venture projects.
Russia remains India’s largest defense supplier, and the two countries have a long-standing strategic defense partnership. The acquisition of the Voronezh radar system is expected to further strengthen this relationship and enhance India’s defense capabilities.