Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Mar 27: The Ministry of Defence on Friday signed two contracts worth Rs 858 crore to enhance India’s air defence and maritime surveillance capabilities.

The agreements, finalised at Kartavya Bhawan-2, include the procurement of the Tunguska Air Defence Missile System for the Indian Army and depot-level inspection of the Navy’s P-8I long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft.

A Rs 445 crore contract has been signed with JSC Rosoboronexport for the Tunguska system, aimed at strengthening India’s multi-layered air defence network against aerial threats such as drones, aircraft, and cruise missiles. The deal highlights the continuing strategic defence ties between India and Russia.

The second contract, valued at Rs 413 crore, has been signed with Boeing India Defense Private Limited for depot-level inspection of the P-8I aircraft operated by the Indian Navy. Executed under the Buy Indian category with 100% indigenous content, the agreement will facilitate maintenance at a domestic MRO facility, improving operational readiness and reducing downtime.

The P-8I aircraft plays a key role in maritime surveillance, anti-submarine warfare, and long-range reconnaissance, especially in the strategically important Indian Ocean region.

The government said the contracts align with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make-in-India initiatives, promoting domestic capabilities while strengthening defence infrastructure and international partnerships.