Image Credit: Vitaly V. Kuzmin
India to Co-Develop Russia’s SA-22 ‘Greyhound’ Air Defense System
India is set to co-develop the Pantsir S-1 air defense system, also known as the SA-22 ‘Greyhound’ in NATO terminology, alongside Russia.
This advanced short-range air defense system has notably been used to protect Russian President Vladimir Putin’s residence from drone attacks. The agreement strengthens India’s defense capabilities, adding to its existing arsenal, which includes the S-400 (SA-21 ‘Growler’) long-range air defense systems.
Expanding India’s Defense Network
While India has successfully integrated the S-400 systems, the Pantsir-S1 will play a critical role in enhancing India’s multi-layered air defense. The system, equipped to counter various aerial threats like drones, helicopters, and ballistic missiles, will help defend crucial infrastructure, including military bases and command centers.
Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) announced on social media that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Rosoboronexport, Russia’s state arms exporter, to advance cooperation on Pantsir variants. “Bharat Dynamics Limited and Rosoboronexport (ROE), Russia entered into an MoU for cooperation on Pantsir variants, air defense missile-gun systems,” the post read. The MoU was signed by senior officials from both organizations during the 5th Intergovernmental Commission Subgroup on Military-Technical Cooperation in Goa.
Strengthening Bilateral Defense Ties
The India-Russia Intergovernmental Commission (IRIGC), with its two branches focusing on trade, cultural, and military cooperation, has facilitated this development. Co-chaired by India’s External Affairs Minister and Russia’s Deputy Prime Minister, the commission has supported various bilateral defense initiatives.
Despite the slowdown in arms trade due to the ongoing Ukraine conflict, this collaboration underscores the enduring defense partnership between India and Russia. The co-development of the Pantsir-S1 will ensure India has state-of-the-art air defense systems, further reinforcing its layered security network against a wide range of threats.
