India is set to strengthen its air power with a major defence deal with Israel worth around $8.7 billion (₹78,217 crore), focusing on advanced missiles, precision-guided bombs, and related systems. The move comes as India faces increased security concerns along its western and eastern borders, with China deploying advanced air defence systems along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and Pakistan reportedly using GPS-jamming technology during recent operations, including Operation Sindoor in May 2025.
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, approved the proposal, which includes SPICE-1000 bombs, Rampage air-to-surface missiles, Air LORA air-launched ballistic missiles, and the Ice Breaker missile system. Frontline fighter jets like the Su-30MKI, MiG-29, and MiG-29K are expected to gain a significant boost in long-range strike capabilities.
The Air LORA missile, part of Israel Aerospace Industries’ LORA family, can hit targets up to 400 kilometers away with high precision.
The Ice Breaker missile is designed for electronic warfare environments, with artificial intelligence enabling it to recognise and attack targets even when GPS signals are denied.
A key feature of the agreement is technology transfer. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) will handle aircraft integration, while Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) will manage electronics and guidance systems. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) will also participate, supporting India’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ push.
India has been Israel’s largest arms buyer, accounting for nearly 34 percent of its defence exports between 2020 and 2024. Officials say this new deal is part of a broader $20-billion plan to modernise India’s air and missile capabilities.
Alongside this, the Indian Army is also acquiring a long-range multiple rocket launcher system from domestic firm Nibe, based on Elbit Systems’ Precise and Universal Launching System (PULS). The system can launch rockets up to 300 kilometers and loitering munitions up to 100 kilometers, significantly enhancing India’s deep-strike ability.
The agreement is expected to be finalised before the Cabinet Committee on Security by mid-2026, and production of the missiles in India will help reduce dependence on imports while boosting domestic defence technology.
