DAC clears defence proposals worth Rs 67,000 Cr to boost armed forces' capabilities

New Delhi, Aug 5: In a push to modernise India’s military capabilities, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, on August 5 approved a series of capital acquisition proposals worth approximately Rs 67,000 crore. The approvals span all three-armed services and are aimed at enhancing operational readiness across land, sea, and air. For the Army, the DAC approved the procurement of Thermal Imager-based Driver Night Sights for BMP infantry vehicles.

This upgrade is expected to boost night mobility and operational effectiveness of the Mechanised Infantry, particularly in low-visibility combat zones.

The Navy received clearances for acquiring Compact Autonomous Surface Craft, new BrahMos Fire Control Systems and Launchers, and an upgrade of the BARAK-1 Point Defence Missile System.

The autonomous craft are designed to enhance anti-submarine warfare capabilities, enabling detection, classification, and neutralisation of underwater threats with greater precision.

The Air Force’s modernisation will see the induction of mountain-capable radar systems and the upgrade of its SAKSHAM/SPYDER air defence systems. The mountain radars will bolster surveillance in rugged border terrain, while integration of upgraded air defence systems with the Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS) is set to strengthen national air defence architecture. Among the most significant approvals was the procurement of Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPAs) for the Army, Navy, and Air Force. These drones are capable of carrying multiple payloads and weapons and are intended to perform extended surveillance and combat missions, providing round-the-clock operational coverage.

Additionally, the DAC cleared proposals for the continued sustenance of critical air assets, including maintenance support for the C-17 and C-130J transport aircraft fleets. A comprehensive annual maintenance contract for the S-400 long-range air defence system was also approved. The approved acquisitions reflect the government's continued focus on equipping the armed forces with advanced technologies to meet emerging security challenges.