New Delhi, March 20 (NationPress) The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has recently approved a series of eight proposals totaling over Rs 54,000 crore. These proposals encompass the acquisition of enhanced engines for the Army's T-90 tanks, anti-submarine torpedoes for the Navy, and Airborne Early Warning & Control (AEW&C) Aircraft Systems for the Air Force.

The council granted 'Acceptance of Necessity' (AoN) for the acquisition of a 1350 HP engine aimed at upgrading the existing 1000 HP engine of the T-90 tanks. This upgrade is anticipated to significantly boost the battlefield mobility of these tanks, particularly in high-altitude environments, by improving the power-to-weight ratio, as per a statement from the Defence Ministry.

In parallel, the Council approved the procurement of the domestically produced Varunastra Torpedoes (Combat) for the Indian Navy. This ship-launched anti-submarine torpedo has been developed by the Naval Science & Technological Laboratory. The addition of these torpedoes will bolster the Navy's capabilities against enemy submarine threats.

The DAC also sanctioned AoN for the Indian Air Force’s acquisition of Airborne Early Warning & Control (AEW&C) Aircraft Systems. These systems are seen as critical enhancers that could transform the entire warfare landscape and significantly amplify the combat efficacy of all other weaponry, the statement elaborated.

As part of the celebrations marking 2025 as the 'Year of Reforms' in the Ministry of Defence, the DAC has also endorsed guidelines aimed at shortening the timelines for various stages of the Capital Acquisition Process for the defense services, ensuring a quicker, more efficient, and more effective procurement process, according to the Defence Ministry.

The substantial orders for domestically manufactured military equipment have also contributed to enhancing self-reliance, aligning with the government’s Atmanirbhar initiative.

Rajnath Singh expressed optimism that defense production, having surpassed the record figure of Rs 1.27 lakh crore in 2023-24, is expected to exceed Rs 1.60 lakh crore by the conclusion of 2025-26, while defense exports, which reached a record of Rs 21,000 crore, are projected to exceed Rs 30,000 crore.

Earlier today, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the procurement of the India-made Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), valued at nearly Rs 7,000 crore, marking a significant stride towards achieving self-reliance in the defense sector.