Following the Success of Operation Sindoor: Indian Air Force to Procure Additional Rampage Missiles from Israel
The missile, already integrated into India’s main fighter aircraft, has proven itself in operations against Pakistan and is expected to become a key weapon in the Indian arsenal
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to increase its acquisition of Rampage air-to-surface missiles from Israel, after their successful deployment during Operation Sindoor. According to India Today, the missiles have already been integrated onto frontline aircraft including the Su-30MKI, Jaguar, and MiG-29, and were fast-tracked to ensure rapid operational readiness.
Designated in Indian service as the High Speed Low Drag-Mark 2, the Rampage was developed for long-range, high-speed strike missions. It enables fighter jets to target enemy positions deep inside hostile territory without entering the engagement envelope of advanced air defense systems. During Operation Sindoor, Su-30MKI fighters launched Rampage missiles against Pakistani targets with high precision, demonstrating their battlefield value.
India first began procuring the Rampage in 2020–2021 amid rising tensions with China along the eastern Ladakh border. Since then, the missile has become a key component of the IAF’s modernization plan, which aims to strengthen long-range deterrence and strike capabilities. Alongside Rampage, the Air Force’s fleet can also deploy BrahMos cruise missiles, further enhancing operational flexibility.
Discussions are underway to produce the Rampage locally under the Make in India initiative through industrial cooperation with Israel. Such an arrangement would enable large-scale domestic production, improving supply security and strategic independence.
Operation Sindoor highlighted the IAF’s increasing reliance on precision strike weapons with ranges of 250–450 kilometers, including the BrahMos, SCALP, Rampage, and Crystal Maze. These weapons allowed India to hit targets without coming within range of China’s HQ-9 air defense systems.
At the same time, the IAF is working to boost indigenous capabilities. It has asked the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) to extend the range of Astra air-to-air missiles and accelerate development of the long-range “Project Kusha” air defense system. India is also considering the purchase of additional S-400 air defense batteries from Russia, which have recently proven critical in deterring adversary aircraft.
Together, these steps reflect India’s comprehensive strategy to secure a technological and operational advantage over its regional rivals — both on the western front with Pakistan and along the northern border with China.