India-Russia to ink Rs. 39,000cr defense deal in October
India will reportedly finalize Rs. 39,000cr deal with Russia for the S-400 Triumf air defense missile systems in October when PM Modi and President Putin would meet in New Delhi for the India-Russia annual summit. Defense minister Nirmala Sitharaman, currently in Moscow, is chalking out the nitty-gritty of the deal with Russian Defense minister Sergei Shoigu. Here's more about it.
Why is S-400 Triumf air defense missile system important?
The S-400 Triumf air defense missile system can detect, track and destroy hostile weapons at a range of up to 400kms and altitude of 30kms. It can engage with 36 targets at a time. India wants to induct the missile systems at the earliest to strengthen itself in the northern and western sectors, considering China and Pakistan's aggressive posturing.
What else was discussed during Sitharaman's visit?
During Sitharaman's visit, the deal for four more Krivak/Talwar class stealth frigate will be inked. Of these, two will be imported and the remaining two will be built at Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL). In addition, price negotiations for leasing out a second Akula-II nuclear-powered attack submarine and discussions on joint manufacturing of spares for Russian-origin military equipment were also discussed.
What is the significance of these talks?
Upcoming deals will cement Russia's position as India's top arms dealer. However, they will be closely watched by US, which earlier signed a law punishing entities engaging in defense/intelligence sector deals with Russia. Meanwhile, Sitharaman's visit laid the groundwork for the upcoming multi-nation army drill under Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). India will be carrying Russian-origin equipment for these drills.
