India has approved defence procurements worth around $25 billion, including additional S-400 missile system units, according to a statement from the defence ministry.
The approvals were granted by the Defence Acquisition Council, headed by Rajnath Singh. Officials said the government has cleared 55 proposals worth 6.73 trillion Indian rupees (about $71bn) so far in the 2025–26 fiscal year.
In addition, capital procurement contracts valued at 2.28 trillion rupees ($25bn) have already been signed — marking the highest such spending in a single fiscal year.
For the air force, the approved acquisitions include medium transport aircraft to replace ageing AN-32 aircraft and IL-76 aircraft fleets, more S-400 air defence systems, drones, and upgrades to Su-30 fighter jet engines.
While India has increasingly diversified its defence imports by purchasing equipment from the United States, France, and Israel, the latest deals highlight that Russia remains a key supplier.
The S-400 systems are intended to counter long-range aerial threats, while remotely piloted strike aircraft — armed drones — will enhance both surveillance and combat capabilities.
For the army, the council approved a range of equipment including air defence tracking systems, armour-piercing tank ammunition, communication radios, artillery systems, and aerial surveillance tools aimed at improving battlefield awareness.