The Indian defense ministry has approved the purchase of 21 Russian MiG-29 and 12 Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter aircraft worth $2.43 billion, AP reported.

The ministry also said it approved the local development of missile systems for all three branches of the military, as well as ammunition and modernized infantry fighting vehicles for the army.

India expects the arrival of the first batch of 36 Rafale fighters ordered as part of an $ 8.78 billion deal with France in 2016.

India has become the world's largest importer of weapons as it modernizes its armed forces.