New Delhi: In a significant move to enhance the operational readiness of India’s Armed Forces, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has approved capital acquisition proposals worth approximately ₹67,000 crore.
The greenlighted projects span cutting-edge technologies and equipment across the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, with a strong emphasis on indigenous development and strategic capability enhancement.
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Indian Army: Night Vision and Mobility Upgrades
For the Indian Army, the DAC has granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for the procurement of Thermal Imager-based Driver Night Sights for BMP Infantry Combat Vehicles.
This advanced system will significantly improve night-time operational mobility and surveillance, empowering mechanised infantry units to maintain high readiness in low-visibility environments.
Indian Navy: Autonomous Craft and Missile Systems
The Indian Navy will benefit from several key procurements, including:
- Compact Autonomous Surface Craft for anti-submarine warfare (ASW)—designed to detect, classify, and neutralise underwater threats
- BrahMos Fire Control Systems and Launchers to strengthen precision strike capabilities
- Upgradation of BARAK-1 Point Defence Missile Systems, enhancing fleet-level air defence resilience
These technologies will augment the Navy’s maritime superiority and ensure tactical dominance in high-threat zones.
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Indian Air Force: Radar and Missile System Enhancements
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has received AoN for:
- Mountain Surveillance Radars, which will enhance situational awareness and aerial monitoring across mountainous terrains and border areas
- Upgradation of SAKSHAM/SPYDER Air Defence Systems, enabling seamless integration with the Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS)
These approvals from defence acquisition council are crucial for bolstering India’s air defence posture in sensitive zones.
Tri-Service Capability: Indigenous MALE Drones and Fleet Sustainment
A key highlight of the Defence Acquisition Council meeting was the approval for Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) for the Army, Navy, and Air Force. These indigenous drones will:
- Support round-the-clock ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance) operations
- Carry multiple payloads and precision-guided weapons
- Deliver long-range combat and surveillance capabilities
Additionally, the Defence Acquisition Council approved sustainment contracts for strategic air platforms, including:
- Maintenance and support for C-17 and C-130J transport aircraft fleets
- Annual maintenance contracts for S-400 Long Range Surface-to-Air Missile (LRSAM) systems
Defence Acquisition Council: Focus on Indigenous Capabilities
The Defence Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) by prioritizing indigenous systems, boosting local manufacturing, and strengthening India’s position as a regional defence powerhouse.
These landmark approvals reflect the government’s proactive approach to modernize armed forces, address strategic vulnerabilities, and create a robust, future-ready military ecosystem.
