Saturday, 4 July 2026 MUMBAI EDITION LIVE

India Approves Advanced Air Defence Systems to Strengthen National Security

India clears procurement of MR-SAM, V-SHORADS systems to bolster air defence capabilities against emerging threats.

Vikram Menon
Vikram Menon
Foreign Affairs Editor · Sat, 04 July 2026 at 12:00 pm
India Approves Advanced Air Defence Systems to Strengthen National Security

India's defence establishment has given the green light to acquire three cutting-edge air defence systems aimed at significantly strengthening the nation's aerial protection infrastructure. The Defence Acquisition Council has sanctioned the procurement of the Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MR-SAM), Very Short Range Air Defence System (V-SHORADS), and the Akash Tarang Anti-UAV Electronic Warfare System.

These weapon platforms will work in tandem to create a multi-layered defence mechanism capable of detecting and neutralizing threats ranging from unmanned aerial vehicles to advanced missiles and fighter aircraft. The MR-SAM system will provide medium-range coverage, while V-SHORADS will handle threats in its operational envelope. The Akash Tarang system specifically targets the growing menace of drone-based attacks through electronic warfare capabilities.

The acquisition forms a critical component of India's ambitious Sudarshan Chakra project, an integrated air defence network designed to create a cohesive, nationwide shield against aerial threats. The approvals reflect lessons learned from recent operational experiences, particularly insights gained from Operation Sindoor, which demonstrated vulnerabilities in existing air defence coordination.

These systems will significantly enhance India's ability to counter evolving security challenges in the region. With neighbouring nations modernizing their aerial capabilities, these acquisitions position India to maintain strategic parity and protect critical infrastructure from both conventional and unconventional airborne threats. The integrated network approach ensures better coordination between various defence units across the country.

Experts believe this modernization will have ripple effects across the defence industry, spurring technological innovation and domestic manufacturing capabilities. The phased implementation of these systems will strengthen India's overall deterrence posture while creating employment opportunities in the defence sector.

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