The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has cleared capital acquisition proposals worth approximately ₹67,000 crore aimed at enhancing the combat readiness and operational capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces.
The approvals include key procurements for the Army, Navy, and Air Force under the Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) framework, reinforcing India’s push for modernisation and indigenisation in the defence sector.
For the Indian Army, the DAC approved the procurement of Thermal Imager-based Driver Night Sight for BMP infantry fighting vehicles. This upgrade will significantly improve night driving capability, providing greater mobility and operational advantage to mechanised infantry units during low-visibility conditions.
The Indian Navy will acquire Compact Autonomous Surface Craft, BrahMos Fire Control Systems and Launchers, and an upgraded BARAK-1 Point Defence Missile System. The autonomous surface craft will bolster the Navy’s ability to detect, classify, and neutralise threats in anti-submarine warfare missions, enhancing maritime security.
For the Indian Air Force, the DAC accorded AoN for procurement of mountain radars to improve air surveillance in high-altitude regions and for the upgradation of the SAKSHAM/SPYDER weapon system. The integration of the SPYDER system with the Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS) will significantly strengthen India’s air defence network.
In a major capability boost across all three services, the DAC also approved the procurement of Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPAs). These advanced drones, capable of carrying multiple payloads and weapons, will enable extended-range surveillance and precision strike missions, providing 24×7 operational capability.
Additionally, the council cleared proposals for sustenance of C-17 and C-130J transport aircraft fleets and a comprehensive annual maintenance contract for the S-400 long-range air defence missile system, ensuring operational readiness of these strategic assets.
The Defence Ministry emphasised that these acquisitions align with India’s commitment to self-reliance in defence manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.