In a major push to bolster India’s military strength, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has approved procurement proposals worth ₹2.38 lakh crore (around $25 billion).
The meeting was chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who said the decisions would significantly enhance the country’s defence preparedness. Sharing the update on X, Singh noted that the council granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for a wide range of acquisitions across the Army, Air Force and Coast Guard. He also highlighted that defence approvals and contracts have reached record levels in the current financial year.
“Chaired the DAC meeting today in which AoN was accorded to various proposals worth about ₹2.38 lakh crore. These decisions will further strengthen India’s defence preparedness,” Singh said.
Focus on Army Modernisation
The Indian Army is set to receive multiple upgrades aimed at improving operational readiness and battlefield efficiency. Key approvals include the Air Defence Tracked System for real-time air defence coordination and High Capacity Radio Relay systems for secure communication.
The DAC also cleared procurement of Armoured Piercing Tank Ammunition to enhance anti-tank capabilities, along with the Dhanush Gun System to boost long-range strike precision. Additionally, the Runway Independent Aerial Surveillance System has been approved to strengthen intelligence and monitoring capabilities across diverse terrains.
Air Force Gets Strategic Boost
For the Indian Air Force, the council approved Medium Transport Aircraft to replace ageing AN-32 and IL-76 fleets, enhancing both strategic and tactical airlift capabilities.
A key highlight is the clearance for the S-400 long-range surface-to-air missile system, aimed at countering advanced aerial threats. The DAC also approved Remotely Piloted Strike Aircraft to strengthen offensive and surveillance operations.
Additionally, the overhaul of Su-30 aero engine aggregates has been cleared, a move expected to extend aircraft service life and maintain operational readiness.
Boost to Maritime Security
The Indian Coast Guard will receive Heavy Duty Air Cushion Vehicles to enhance coastal patrolling, search and rescue, reconnaissance, and logistics support. These platforms are expected to significantly improve rapid response capabilities along India’s coastline.
Record Defence Spending
Rajnath Singh noted that in FY 2025–26, the DAC has already accorded AoN to 55 proposals worth ₹6.73 lakh crore. He termed it “heartening” that capital procurement contracts for 503 proposals worth ₹2.28 lakh crore have been signed this fiscal — the highest ever in a single year.
The latest approvals underline the government’s continued focus on modernising the armed forces and strengthening both indigenous and strategic defence capabilities amid evolving security challenges.
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