India and Russia Collaborate on Pantsir Air Defence System
| Summary/Static | Details |
|---|---|
| Why in the news? | India and Russia to jointly manufacture the Pantsir air defence missile-gun system. |
| Signatories | Bharat Dynamics Ltd (BDL) and Rosoboronexport (ROE). |
| Event Context | MoU signed during the 5th India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission (IRIGC) Subgroup meeting in Goa. |
| Purpose | To manufacture the Pantsir system under India's 'Make in India' initiative. |
| Key Features of Pantsir System | - Components: Missile launcher, radar truck, and command post. - Missile Range: Up to 20 km, altitudes of up to 15 km. - Speed: Missiles can intercept fast-moving targets at speeds of 1,300 m/s. - Guns: 30mm auto-cannons effective against low-altitude threats like drones. |
| Strategic Importance | Enhances India's defence self-reliance and strengthens India-Russia defence ties. |
| Historical Context | India and Russia have long-standing defence cooperation; 60-70% of India's military equipment is of Russian origin. |