In an exclusive interview with Sputnik India, retired Commodore A Madhavarao, Chairman and Managing Director of Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), confirmed that discussions with Russia on local production are "going well."
On November 11, BDL signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Russian arms exporter Rosoboronexport for the production of the Pantsir system in India.
The Pantsir system offers dual protection against short-range air threats with surface-to-air missiles that have a range of up to 18 km, along with two 30mm autocannons capable of taking down enemy helicopters or drones. The system can be mounted on a truck and requires a crew of just three people: a driver, a technician, and a gunner who can choose the appropriate ammunition based on the threat.
The Indian military has long relied on Russian-made air defence systems for protection against aerial threats. Indian tank units are equipped with the Tunguska and Shilka air defence systems, which protect tanks from enemy helicopters and drone attacks.
Additionally, India has bolstered its air defence by purchasing five units of the Russian S-400 system, three of which have already been delivered.