Defence Acquisition Council Clears Proposals Worth Over Rs 54,000 Crore to Boost India’s Defence Capabilities.
Procurement of advanced equipment for Army, Navy, and Air Force approved; New guidelines set to fast-track acquisition process.
New Delhi:
In a significant step towards enhancing India’s defence capabilities, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has approved capital acquisition proposals worth over Rs 54,000 crore. The proposals, which span across the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, aim to modernize and strengthen the country’s military forces.
Among the key approvals is the procurement of 1350 HP engines for the T-90 tanks, which will replace the current 1000 HP engines. This upgrade is crucial for improving the battlefield mobility of these tanks, particularly in high-altitude regions, by increasing the power-to-weight ratio. The move is expected to bolster the Army’s operational capabilities in challenging terrains.
The Indian Navy also received approval for the procurement of Varunastra Torpedoes, an indigenously developed ship-launched anti-submarine weapon. Manufactured by the Naval Science & Technological Laboratory, the Varunastra torpedo will significantly enhance the Navy’s ability to counter submarine threats from adversaries, ensuring superior maritime security.
For the Indian Air Force, the DAC has given its nod to the acquisition of Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) Aircraft Systems. AEW&C systems are designed to provide vital surveillance and control capabilities, substantially boosting the combat effectiveness of the Air Force by integrating enhanced surveillance and early warning features into various operational scenarios.
As part of the ongoing defence reforms under the ‘Year of Reforms’ initiative, the DAC has also approved new guidelines to expedite the capital acquisition process. These guidelines aim to reduce the timeframes at various stages of the procurement process, making it faster, more efficient, and more responsive to the evolving needs of India’s defence forces.
These strategic acquisitions are part of the government’s ongoing efforts to modernize and enhance the operational readiness of India’s military, ensuring that the armed forces are equipped with cutting-edge technology to address future challenges.
The approvals are expected to significantly strengthen India’s defence infrastructure and bolster national security, while also promoting indigenization and self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
Key Highlights:
Rs 54,000 crore investment to enhance defence capabilities.
Procurement of 1350 HP engines for T-90 tanks.
Induction of Varunastra Torpedoes to enhance anti-submarine capabilities.
Airborne Early Warning & Control Aircraft Systems for the Air Force.
