In a significant move to enhance its air defence capabilities, the Indian Army has confirmed an additional order for the ARKA Man-Portable Air-Defence System (MANPADS).
These systems, which are the Indian version of the Russian Igla-S, will be manufactured in India by Adani Defence & Aerospace, reinforcing the nation's commitment to self-reliance under the ‘Make in India’ initiative
The ARKA is a shoulder-fired missile system designed to provide frontline soldiers with a crucial defence against aerial threats. It is engineered to effectively engage and neutralize low-flying targets such as attack helicopters, fighter aircraft, and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs).
Utilising an advanced infrared homing guidance system, the missile has a proven operational range of up to 6 kilometres.
The official renaming of the system from Igla-S to ARKA highlights a strategic push towards branding and local ownership of defence technology.
This procurement is a critical component of the Indian Army's broader strategy to modernise its Very Short-Range Air Defence (VSHORAD) arsenal. The new ARKA units are set to replace the army's aging Soviet-era Igla-1M systems, which have been in service for several decades.
This latest order follows previous acquisitions made under emergency procurement powers to address urgent operational requirements along the borders.
The production of the ARKA system in India marks a major milestone for the country's private defence sector. Adani Defence & Aerospace is manufacturing the systems locally through a Transfer of Technology agreement with Russia's original equipment manufacturer.
This collaboration not only boosts India’s industrial base but also ensures the armed forces have access to cost-effective and state-of-the-art equipment produced domestically.
This partnership also underscores the growing synergy between the government and private industry in building a robust national defence ecosystem.
