Did the Defence Ministry Approve the Purchase of India-Made Military Hardware Worth Rs 1.05 Lakh Crore?
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Synopsis
In a major boost to India's defence capabilities, the Defence Ministry has greenlit significant military hardware purchases worth Rs 1.05 lakh crore. This decision marks a pivotal step towards enhancing indigenous defence production and operational readiness.
Key Takeaways
- Defence Acquisition Council approved military hardware purchases worth Rs 1.05 lakh crore.
- Enhancements include Armoured Recovery Vehicles and Surface-to-Air Missiles.
- Focus on indigenous production to bolster national security.
- India's defence production has surged to Rs 1.46 lakh crore.
- Private sector involvement is key to future defence projects.
New Delhi, July 3 (NationPress) The Defence Acquisition Council, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has officially approved 10 proposals for acquiring military equipment, including missiles and electronic warfare systems, amounting to around Rs 1.05 lakh crore through local production.
The Council granted its Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for the procurement of Armoured Recovery Vehicles, Electronic Warfare Systems, Integrated Common Inventory Management System for the Tri-Services, and Surface-to-Air Missiles. These acquisitions are expected to enhance mobility, strengthen air defence, improve supply chain management, and boost the operational readiness of the Armed Forces, as noted in a statement from the Defence Ministry.
Additionally, AoNs were approved for the acquisition of Moored Mines, Mine Counter Measure Vessels, Super Rapid Gun Mount, and Submersible Autonomous Vessels. These resources will help mitigate risks to naval and merchant vessels.
To further promote indigenous design and development, AoNs were granted under the Buy (Indian-Indigenously Designed Developed and Manufactured) category, the statement indicated.
India’s indigenous defence production has reached an unprecedented level of Rs 1.46 lakh crore, with exports reaching a record Rs 24,000 crore for the 2024-25 period, according to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
“Our defence production, which stood at only Rs 43,000 crore a decade ago, has now surged to a historic Rs 1,46,000 crore, with the private sector contributing over Rs 32,000 crore. Our defence exports, which were around Rs 600-700 crore ten years ago, have now exceeded Rs 24,000 crore,” the minister remarked at the recent Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) annual summit.
He emphasized that Make-in-India is vital for national security and prosperity, citing the successful use of indigenous systems during 'Operation Sindoor' as evidence of India's capability to breach enemy defenses.
“Our weapons, systems, sub-systems, components, and services are being supplied to approximately 100 countries. Over 16,000 MSMEs connected to the defence sector are now pivotal to the supply chain, reinforcing our self-reliance journey and providing jobs to countless individuals,” the minister stated.
Furthermore, he mentioned that the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program will create an opportunity for private sector involvement in a significant defence project alongside public sector firms for the first time, thus further promoting the Make in India initiative in the defence sector.
Point of View
It is essential to convey that this strategic move by the Defence Ministry not only enhances our military capabilities but also underscores India's commitment to self-reliance in defence production. The emphasis on indigenous systems and private sector involvement is a progressive step towards ensuring national security and fostering economic growth.
NationPress
03/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total value of the military hardware approved?
The total value of the military hardware approved is approximately Rs 1.05 lakh crore.
What types of military hardware are being acquired?
The acquisitions include Armoured Recovery Vehicles, Electronic Warfare Systems, Surface-to-Air Missiles, and more.
What is the significance of the Buy (Indian-Indigenously Designed Developed and Manufactured) category?
This category promotes indigenous design and development, boosting local manufacturing and self-reliance in defence.
How has India's defence production evolved over the years?
India's defence production has increased from Rs 43,000 crore a decade ago to Rs 1.46 lakh crore today.
What role do MSMEs play in India's defence sector?
Over 16,000 MSMEs contribute significantly to the defence supply chain, strengthening self-reliance and job creation.
