Defence Procurement Proposals Approved

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) of India, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has approved several procurement proposals amounting to nearly ₹67,000 crore aimed at bolstering the military preparedness of the country. The approvals impact all three branches of the Indian Armed Forces: the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

Summary of Key Procurement Approvals:

• Indian Army:

  • The DAC has granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for the procurement of Thermal Imager-based Driver Night Sight for BMP (Battle Management Platform) vehicles.
  • This technology enhancement will improve night driving capabilities, providing better mobility and operational advantages to mechanised infantry units.

• Indian Navy:

  • AoN has been accorded for:
    • Compact Autonomous Surface Craft: This acquisition aims to bolster the Navy's capabilities in detecting, classifying, and neutralising threats during anti-submarine warfare operations.
    • BrahMos Fire Control System and Launchers: This procurement will further enhance the strike capabilities of the Navy.
    • Upgradation of the BARAK-1 Point Defence Missile System: This will improve the Navy's defensive measures.

• Indian Air Force:

  • The DAC has sanctioned AoN for:
    • Mountain Radars: These will enhance air surveillance capabilities particularly in the challenging mountainous terrains along the borders.
    • Upgradation of the Saksham/Spyder Weapon System: This upgrade will allow integration with the Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS), thereby strengthening air defence capabilities.

• Joint Procurement Initiatives:

  • AoN has also been approved for the acquisition of Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPAs) for use by all three services.
  • These RPAs are designed to carry various payloads and weapons, promising extended operational ranges and enhanced surveillance and combat capabilities around the clock.
  • Furthermore, the DAC has also approved measures for the sustenance of the C-17 and C-130J fleets, alongside a comprehensive annual maintenance contract for the S-400 Long Range Air Defence Missile System.

Additional Information:

• The strategic implications of these acquisitions are significant as they aim to enhance the readiness and operational flexibility of Indian forces in diverse operational scenarios.
• The approval reflects the ongoing commitment of the Ministry of Defence (MoD) to modernise the Indian Armed Forces in line with contemporary security threats and technological advancements.

Important Points:

• The DAC is a crucial body responsible for the procurement of defence equipment in India.
• The recent approvals collectively seek to enhance India's military capabilities across army, navy, and air force.
• These initiatives are in line with India’s broader strategy to ensure national security and readiness in a continuously evolving geopolitical landscape.

The total procurement approval of ₹67,000 crore exemplifies the government's strategic focus on advancing defence capabilities through modern technology and systems, critical to safeguarding national security.