In a calculated move to improve the combat capabilities of the Indian Navy’s submarine fleet, India and Russia have formally signed a contract for the purchase of anti-ship cruise missiles. Defense Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh was present at a ceremony in New Delhi on February 4, 2025, where the contract was finalized.
India’s Sindhughosh-class submarines, an Indian version of the Russian Kilo-class submarines, are expected to become much more operationally effective with the purchase of these missiles. These submarines, which have been in service since 1986, are essential to India’s underwater warfare capabilities.
It is believed that the missiles might be the 3M-54 Klub-S, an export version of the 3M-54 Kalibr that can engage both naval and land targets at ranges between 220 and 300 kilometers, even though precise information regarding the quantity of missiles and their delivery schedule has not been made public.
This agreement strengthens India’s defense relations with Russia, a longtime military cooperation partner. India’s deterrence capabilities in the Indo-Pacific area should be improved by the integration of these cutting-edge missiles, especially in light of the escalating geopolitical tensions.
The purchase is in line with India’s overarching plan to enhance its maritime security posture and modernize its naval forces. With the addition of anti-ship cruise missiles, the Sindhughosh-class submarines’ already impressive array of cutting-edge systems will be even more potent against maritime threats. India’s continuous efforts to keep a strong naval presence in key waters, guaranteeing preparedness against possible enemies, have taken a major step with this contract.
