India turns to Russian missiles to counter China-backed Pakistan
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- India signs a $1.2 billion contract for about 300 R‑37M missiles, with deliveries slated for the next 12‑18 months.
- Su‑30MKI fighters will receive software updates to the Bars radar, mission computer, and weapons management system, enabling each upgraded aircraft to carry two R‑37Ms (up to six‑eight on fully modernized frames).
- Pakistan operates Chinese‑made J‑10C jets, PL‑15 missiles and is acquiring KJ‑500 AEW&C aircraft, forming an “ABC” network that could push its high‑value assets farther from the front line.
- Defense Security Asia notes that Russia already fields the R‑37M on its Su‑30SM, reducing technical risk for India’s integration.
- Belfer Center analyst Sannan Pervaiz warns that India’s mixed‑origin fleet of Western, Russian, Indian and Israeli platforms complicates rapid sensor‑to‑weapon coordination.
Why it matters: India gains a 300‑missile, $1.2 billion boost to its air‑to‑air range, forcing Pakistan to relocate its AEW&C and refueling assets, which will strain its operational tempo and raise escalation risk.
