India is making strides in its defense modernization with a new technology transfer agreement from Israel. This deal includes two advanced missile systems: the Air Lora quasi-ballistic missile and the Ice Breaker smart cruise missile.
Recently, a confidential Indian delegation visited Israel. This trip set the stage for producing these missile systems domestically. The agreement not only boosts Indo-Israeli collaboration but also gives India access to essential design blueprints, technology, and manufacturing processes.
Local firms, Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), will spearhead the production of these missiles, working closely with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). This effort supports India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, aimed at achieving self-reliance in defense.
India’s need for enhanced missile capabilities is crucial. With China ramping up its air defense systems along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and Pakistan employing GPS jamming technologies, India aims to strengthen its defense. During Operation Sindoor in May 2025, Israel-made Rampage missiles successfully overcame electronic interference, influencing the decision to adopt the new systems.
The Air Lora missile has a range of over 400 kilometers, with a payload effective against fortified targets. Its precision is impressive, boasting a circular error probable (CEP) of less than 10 meters. Its unique flight path makes it hard for enemy defenses to intercept. BEL will oversee the indigenous production of its components, while DRDO will incorporate insights for future missile programs.
The Ice Breaker, developed by Rafael Advanced Defence Systems, offers unique features. This AI-powered cruise missile can cover over 300 kilometers and weighs around 400 kilograms. It can be launched from light combat aircraft like TEJAS and is designed to operate even in GPS-denied environments. Its advanced capabilities include stealth shaping and autonomous target recognition.
HAL will integrate the Ice Breaker with Indian aircraft, leveraging its experience from the Astra missile program. Meanwhile, BEL will be responsible for the missile’s electronic and guidance systems.
The Defence Ministry is finalizing agreements to ensure secure production through a mix of public and private suppliers. Once production is stable, India plans to export these missiles to friendly Indo-Pacific nations, thereby enhancing regional security. This initiative is part of a broader $20 billion aerospace procurement package, awaiting approval by the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) by mid-2026.
This comprehensive technology transfer is a pivotal moment for India, moving from being a defense importer to a technology producer. It showcases the growing international confidence in India’s ability to innovate in defense technology and enhances its long-range strike capabilities.
Overall, this partnership ushers in a new era for India’s defense ecosystem, empowering local engineers and scientists to create advanced missile technologies.
