The Indian Army has received state-of-the-art Igla-S (Igla-S) air defense missiles from Russia, significantly enhancing the nation's air defense capabilities. These weapons are deployed at forward positions to target enemy fighter jets, drones, and attack helicopters with precision at close range.
These missiles have been provided under a special procurement contract worth 250 crore rupees, signed between the Indian Army and Russia. The deal is tailored to meet urgent operational needs, bolstering air defense in border areas. This inventory boost will further strengthen the missile capability of the army on the western front with Pakistan.
The missile's lethal precision ensures it hits its mark every time. Since 1989, the army and air force have been using the older Igla-1M system. The shoulder-fired Igla-S, however, is a superior version with an interception range of up to 6 kilometers. Carried by a single soldier, these missiles can automatically seek and destroy locked targets.
The Igla-S anti-aircraft missile weighs 10.8 kilograms, while the full system weighs 18 kilograms. The system measures 5.16 feet in length with a diameter of 72 millimeters, carrying a 1.17-kilogram warhead on its tip. With a range of 5 to 6 kilometers, the missile can reach altitudes up to 11 thousand feet and travels toward its target at a blazing speed of 2266 kilometers per hour, leaving enemies with minimal chances of escape.
Defense sources suggest that the Indian armed forces will receive additional equipment to further boost air defense, as the Air Force has signed similar contracts to provide multi-layered protection to the nation's airspace in a coordinated manner.
This strategic move comes at a time when India faces aerial and drone threats from both Pakistan and China. The inclusion of these missiles will significantly enhance the Indian Army's response speed and accuracy.
