In a significant advancement for India’s military capabilities, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has approved defence acquisition proposals amounting to ₹79,000 crore, aimed at bolstering the operational readiness of the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force. The meeting, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, saw the adoption of an Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for various indigenous systems designed to enhance combat efficacy.
For the Indian Army, the DAC approved a series of procurement initiatives aimed at improving precision strikes and counter-drone capabilities. The approved items include Loiter Munition Systems intended for artillery regiments, allowing for targeted strikes on time-sensitive and tactical targets. Additionally, Low Level Light Weight Radars will be acquired to identify and track small, low-flying unmanned aerial vehicles. The Indian Army will also receive Long Range Guided Rocket Ammunition for the Pinaka Multiple Launch Rocket System, significantly enhancing both its range and accuracy. Lastly, the Integrated Drone Detection & Interdiction System Mk-II was green-lit to safeguard military installations against emerging drone threats.
In terms of maritime operations, the Indian Navy will benefit from the acquisition of Bollard Pull Tugs, which will assist naval vessels during various manoeuvres in confined waters. Furthermore, High Frequency Software Defined Radios (HF SDR) will be used for secure long-range communications, particularly during critical boarding and landing operations. The leasing of High Altitude Long Range (HALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems has also been approved, aimed at strengthening Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities across the Indian Ocean region.
The Indian Air Force is set to receive advanced technologies that will enhance its operational efficiency. Among the approved acquisitions are Automatic Take-Off and Landing Recording Systems designed to improve aerospace safety with high-definition, all-weather recording capabilities. The Astra Mk-II air-to-air missiles, which feature extended range, will allow IAF fighters to engage adversary aircraft from prolonged standoff distances. Full Mission Simulators for the Tejas aircraft are intended to enhance pilot training in a safe and cost-effective manner. Additionally, SPICE-1000 Long-Range Guidance Kits will significantly improve precision strike capabilities.
This clearance of ₹79,000 crore not only signifies a robust push for indigenisation but also underlines the government’s commitment to rapid capability enhancement and preparedness for contemporary warfare challenges. Defence officials have indicated that these approvals are poised to expedite procurement processes, ensuring that the Armed Forces are equipped to tackle evolving security threats across diverse operational domains, including land, sea, air, and the electromagnetic spectrum.
