The Indian Navy is advocating for the integration of the indigenously developed Naval Anti-Ship Missile-Medium Range (NASM-MR) into its P-8I Poseidon aircraft amid ongoing discussions with the United States for procuring six additional units. The NASM-MR, with a range of 350 km, is expected to enhance the P-8I’s anti-surface warfare capabilities, crucial for countering the growing presence of China’s navy in the Indian Ocean Region. Despite procurement hurdles, including cost escalations attributed to supply chain issues and tariffs, the Navy emphasizes the importance of this deal for bolstering maritime deterrence and indigenization efforts, aligning with India’s broader defense strategy to reduce foreign dependency and improve operational effectiveness.