India Signs $1.2 Billion Deal with Russia for 300 R-37M Missiles

India has signed a deal with Russia to acquire around 300 R-37M ultra-long-range air-to-air missiles, valued at $1.2 billion, according to reports. The agreement involves missiles capable of targeting airborne early-warning and tanker aircraft, with an operational range of 300 to 400 kilometers, as stated by Russia.

The R-37M missiles can travel at six times the speed of sound and are designed for launch from Su-30MKI fighters, which are part of the Indian Air Force. Deliveries of the missiles are expected to begin within 12 to 18 months, based on information from Defence Security Asia.

is developing its own Astra Mk 2 and Mk 3 missiles, which are anticipated to be operational around the same timeframe as the R-37M deliveries. The deal occurs amid regional military activities, including integrations of aerial weapons by neighboring countries.