India Approves ₹79,000 Crore Defence Procurement Plan
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has cleared defence procurement proposals worth around ₹79,000 crore to strengthen the operational capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces. The approvals were granted during a meeting held in New Delhi and cover a wide range of equipment for the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Army Capability Enhancement
For the Indian Army, the DAC granted Acceptance of Necessity for the acquisition of long-range guided rocket ammunition for the Pinaka rocket system, loitering munitions, low-level lightweight radars, and integrated drone detection and interdiction systems. These systems are aimed at improving surveillance, precision strike capability, and protection against emerging aerial threats, particularly unmanned platforms.
Naval and Air Force Approvals
The Indian Navy received approval for the procurement of harbour tugs with high bollard pull capacity to assist warships and submarines, along with secure communication systems and remotely piloted aircraft for maritime surveillance. These assets are expected to enhance logistics support, communication security, and situational awareness in India’s maritime domain.
For the Indian Air Force, the DAC cleared proposals related to advanced air-to-air weapon systems, flight safety and recording equipment, simulator-related support, and precision guidance systems. These procurements are intended to improve combat effectiveness, training standards, and operational safety.
Focus on Self-Reliance
A significant portion of the approved proposals falls under indigenous procurement categories, aligning with the government’s push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing. The approvals are expected to provide a boost to domestic defence production and strengthen the overall defence industrial ecosystem.
