Government Approves Military Hardware Acquisition Worth Rs 2.38 Lakh Crore
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, March 27 (NationPress) The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has officially approved the acceptance of necessity (AoN) for numerous proposals aimed at acquiring military hardware totaling approximately Rs 2.38 lakh crore.
Among the items greenlit for the Indian Army are the Air Defence Tracked System, Armoured Piercing Tank Ammunition, High Capacity Radio Relay, Dhanush Gun System, and Runway Independent Aerial Surveillance System, as stated by the Defence Ministry.
The Air Defence Tracked System is designed to deliver real-time air defence control and reporting capabilities, while the High Capacity Radio Relay will ensure dependable and fail-safe communication.
Furthermore, the Dhanush Gun System aims to bolster artillery capabilities to engage targets effectively at extended ranges across diverse terrains, enhancing both lethality and precision.
The Runway Independent Aerial Surveillance System will equip Army units with significant surveillance capabilities, while the Armoured Piercing Tank Ammunition will improve the effectiveness of anti-tank operations, according to the official statement.
For the Indian Air Force, approvals were granted for procuring Medium Transport Aircraft, S-400 Long Range Surface-to-Air Missile System, Remotely Piloted Strike Aircraft, and the overhaul of Su-30 Aero Engine Aggregates. The introduction of Medium Transport Aircraft will replace the aging fleet of AN32 and IL76, addressing strategic, tactical, and operational airlift needs.
The S-400 system is expected to counter long-range air threats aimed at critical areas, while the Remotely Piloted Strike Aircraft will facilitate offensive and coordinated air operations, also serving stealth intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance purposes. The overhaul of the Su-30 aero engine and its aggregates will prolong the aircraft's service life and meet the operational demands of the Air Force.
Additionally, the Indian Coast Guard received AoN for Heavy Duty Air Cushion Vehicles that will be utilized for various maritime coastal operational roles, including high-speed coastal patrols, reconnaissance, search and rescue missions, assistance to vessels, and logistics transport.
In the Financial Year 2025-26, the DAC has approved AoN for 55 proposals valued at Rs 6.73 lakh crore. Additionally, capital procurement contracts have been finalized for 503 proposals totaling Rs 2.28 lakh crore in the current fiscal year. Both the number of AoN approvals and capital contracts signed represent the highest levels recorded in any financial year, according to the official statement.