Pechora Missile System Digitised, Boosting IAF Air Defence

Bengaluru-based defence manufacturer has completed a major upgrade of the Indian Air Force’s Pechora surface-to-air missile system, marking a significant step in India’s push to modernise ageing military platforms through indigenous capability. The fully digitised upgrade is expected to enhance the operational effectiveness of the and strengthen the country’s layered air defence architecture.

Modernising a Vintage Air Defence System

The Pechora system, inducted in the 1970s, has formed a critical part of India’s air defence network for nearly five decades. While known for reliability, the Russian-origin system faced obsolescence challenges due to rapid technological advances. To address this, the IAF initiated a comprehensive upgrade programme to extend service life and improve combat performance. Alpha Design Technologies emerged as the strategic partner and signed a Rs 591.3 crore contract for the programme on September 25, 2020.

Digitisation and Indigenous Capability

The upgrade involved complete digitisation of the Pechora system, improving response time, accuracy, and maintainability. ADTL has indigenously manufactured and supplied key subsystems, including thermal imaging fire control units, software-defined radios, handheld laser target designators, and missile launch detection systems. The project aligns with the Centre’s emphasis on self-reliance in defence manufacturing and reducing dependence on imported platforms.

Successful User Trials at Pokhran

According to programme officials, firing trials of the first fully upgraded Pechora system were successfully conducted at the between November 6 and December 26, 2025. The trials demonstrated operational readiness under field conditions, validating the performance of the digitised system. The upgraded platform is also expected to contribute to Mission Sudarshan Chakra, aimed at creating an integrated air defence shield against threats ranging from small drones to high-speed fighter aircraft.

Important Facts for Exams

• Pechora is a surface-to-air missile system inducted in the 1970s.
• The upgrade focuses on full digitisation and life extension.
• Alpha Design Technologies is a private Indian defence manufacturer.
• Pokhran range is a key weapons testing site in Rajasthan.

Cost-Effective Upgrade with Strategic Impact

ADTL officials noted that this is the first instance of an Indian private firm modernising a vintage Russian-origin weapon system and successfully conducting surface-to-air missile launches. The upgrade demonstrates that legacy imported systems can be indigenously modernised at a fraction of the cost of acquiring new platforms, allowing the IAF to retain combat capability while transitioning to next-generation air defence technologies.