India is poised to enhance its air superiority with the acquisition of approximately 300 R-37M air-to-air missiles from Russia for the Su-30MKI aircraft, as part of a strategic response to the Pakistan Air Force’s PL-15 missile capabilities. This procurement comes after operational insights from ‘Operation Sindoor’ in May 2025, where Indian pilots faced a range disadvantage. The R-37M, with an impressive range exceeding 300 km, will allow the IAF to neutralize threats from standoff distances, including high-value assets like AWACS. This missile integration is considered a critical interim solution as India advances its indigenous missile programs, particularly as the Astra Mk-2 and Mk-3 are still under development.