After PM's visit, Russia expedites supply of super long-range surface-to-Air missiles

New Delhi: Close on the heels of PM Narendra Modi's Moscow trip for the annual summit, Russia is supplying 120 super long-range Surface-to-Air missiles to India that will give the country's military an edge over Pakistan.

The order was placed following the Balakot air strike when it was felt that India required such long-range missiles to have an edge over Pakistan. Subsequently, an order was placed with Russia for supplies of long range Surface-to-Air missiles, ET has reliably gathered.


The Balakot air strike happened on February 26, 2019. The Balakot air strike piloted Mirage 2000 fighter jets that crossed the Line of Control (LoC) and incinerated the Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camp in Balakot, Pakistan. The air strike was piloted in response to the Pulwama attack.

The supply of missiles may have been delayed till now for multiple factors, including the Covid pandemic and subsequently the Ukraine conflict. The PM's Moscow visit gave the political push to certain pending defence supplies, including remaining two S-400 systems from Russia, it has been learnt.

The Surface-to-Air missiles being supplied are considered among the best in the world and have a range of about 400 kms, sources told ET. Russia has been responding to India's requests on defence requirements during critical junctures and requirement of this missile is crucial for maintaining an edge over Pakistan, an expert explained.