New Delhi: Multiple defence proposals worth around ₹67,000 crore, aimed at significantly enhancing the operational capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces were cleared by the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) on August 5. The DAC was chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
“The Defence Acquisition Council, under the chairmanship of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on August 5, approved various proposals amounting to a total cost of about Rs 67,000 crore,” the Ministry of Defence said in an official statement.
The DAC accorded Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for the procurement of thermal imager-based Driver Night Sight for the BMP infantry combat vehicles for the Indian Army. “This would enhance night driving capability of BMP and provide higher mobility and operational advantage to the Mechanised Infantry,” the statement said.
The Indian Navy is set to acquire Compact Autonomous Surface Craft, BRAHMOS Fire Control System and Launchers, and an upgraded BARAK-1 Point Defence Missile System. According to the ministry, “The procurement of Compact Autonomous Surface Craft will provide the capability to the Indian Navy for detection, classification and neutralisation of threats in anti-submarine warfare missions.”
Meanwhile, the Indian Air Force (IAF) will receive Mountain Radars and an upgraded SAKSHAM/SPYDER Weapon System. “The procurement of mountain radars will enhance the air surveillance capability along and across the borders in the mountainous region,” the ministry stated. “The upgradation of SAKSHAM/SPYDER System for integration with Integrated Air Command and Control System will enhance the Air Defence capability,” it added.
Additionally, a major approval was granted for the procurement of Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPAs) for use across all three services. “The proposed MALE RPAs can carry multiple payloads & weapons and operate at longer ranges for long endurance missions. They will significantly enhance round-the-clock surveillance and combat capability of the Armed Forces,” the ministry noted.
Critical sustenance and maintenance proposals, including for India’s strategic airlift and missile defence assets were also cleared by the DAC. “AoN was also accorded for sustenance of C-17 and C-130J fleets and comprehensive annual maintenance contract of S-400 Long Range Air Defence Missile System,” the ministry said.
