In a landmark move to bolster India’s military capabilities, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh, has approved a series of capital acquisition proposals worth approximately ₹67,000 crore on August 5, 2025.
DAC Clears Key Acquisitions For Army, Navy, Air Force
These acquisitions aim to equip the Indian Armed Forces with cutting-edge systems across all three services: Army, Navy, and Air Force, reinforcing India’s self-reliance and operational readiness.
🪖 Indian Army: Eyes on the Night Battlefield
Approved System: Thermal Imager-based Driver Night Sight for BMP Infantry Combat Vehicles
- Purpose: Enhances night vision driving capabilities
- Benefit: Boosts mobility and operational effectiveness for Mechanised Infantry, allowing seamless navigation in low-light combat scenarios
⚓ Indian Navy: Autonomous Power & Precision
Approved Systems:
- Compact Autonomous Surface Craft (CASC)
- BrahMos Fire Control Systems & Launchers
- BARAK-1 Missile System Upgrade
Key Capabilities:
- CASC: Detects, classifies, and neutralizes underwater threats in anti-submarine warfare (ASW)
- BrahMos Upgrade: Strengthens offensive strike capabilities
- BARAK-1 Upgrade: Improves point air defence against aerial threats
✈️ Indian Air Force: Eyes in the Sky, Teeth on Target
Approved Systems:
- Mountain Radars
- Upgrade of SAKSHAM/SPYDER Weapon System
Strategic Advantages:
- Mountain Radars: Boost surveillance across difficult Himalayan terrain, improving situational awareness
- SPYDER Upgrade: Integrated with the Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS), enhancing Air Defence Network’s responsiveness and effectiveness
🤖 MALE RPAs: Game-Changing Drones for All Three Services
System: Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft
- Features: Capable of carrying multiple payloads and precision-guided weapons
- Range: Long endurance and extended range for continuous missions
- Application: 24×7 ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) and combat operations
✈️🛡️ Sustaining Strategic Assets
AoN was also given for critical support systems including:
- Sustenance of C-17 Globemaster III and C-130J Super Hercules fleets
- Comprehensive Annual Maintenance Contract (CAMC) for S-400 Long-Range Air Defence Missile System
🇮🇳 Conclusion: Marching Towards Atmanirbharta
This major step reflects India’s continued push for self-reliance in defence under the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative. The combination of indigenous procurement, advanced upgrades, and enhanced surveillance tools across services marks a significant leap in the modernization journey of India’s Armed Forces.
