New Delhi, August 7: India’s Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has approved procurement proposals worth nearly ₹67,000 crore ($8 billion) aimed at strengthening the country’s military capabilities, particularly along its borders, the Ministry of Defence said on Wednesday.
The approvals include a broad range of equipment for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, with a strong emphasis on surveillance, mobility, and modernisation of existing platforms.
For the Indian Army, the DAC cleared the acquisition of Thermal Imager-based Driver Night Sights for BMP infantry combat vehicles. The ministry said this would significantly improve night-time mobility and operational effectiveness of mechanised infantry units.
The Indian Navy will procure Compact Autonomous Surface Craft designed for anti-submarine warfare missions, along with new BrahMos Fire Control Systems and launchers. The DAC also approved upgrades to the Navy’s BARAK-1 point defence missile system, enhancing shipborne protection against aerial threats.
In a major step to enhance air surveillance and defence, the Indian Air Force received approval for the procurement of mountain radars and upgrades to the Spyder and Saksham air defence systems. The enhancements will improve coverage across mountainous terrain and allow integration with India’s Integrated Air Command and Control System.
The council also approved the procurement of Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft for all three services. These drones, capable of carrying multiple payloads and weapons, are expected to bolster India’s surveillance and combat capabilities with extended-range, long-endurance operations.
In addition to new acquisitions, the DAC sanctioned proposals for the maintenance and sustainment of key assets, including the C-17 and C-130J transport aircraft fleets, and a comprehensive annual maintenance contract for the S-400 long-range air defence missile system.
The Ministry of Defence said the approvals were part of its broader efforts to ensure the armed forces remain equipped to respond to evolving security challenges, particularly along India’s sensitive border areas.
