India’s defence modernisation received major momentum as the Defence Acquisition Council cleared ₹79,000 crore proposals Monday for forces.
New Delhi
In a significant step toward strengthening India’s defence preparedness and technological edge, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, on Monday accorded Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for a wide range of procurement proposals worth approximately ₹79,000 crore. The approvals span critical requirements of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, underlining the government’s continued focus on enhancing operational readiness across all three services.
According to an official statement, the DAC approved AoN for several key systems for the Indian Army. These include the procurement of Loiter Munition Systems for Artillery Regiments, Low Level Lightweight Radars, Long Range Guided Rocket Ammunition for the Pinaka Multiple Launch Rocket System (MRLS), and the Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction System Mk-II. The Loiter Munition Systems are designed for precision strikes against tactical targets, offering commanders flexible and responsive firepower on the battlefield. Meanwhile, the Low Level Lightweight Radars will significantly improve the Army’s ability to detect and track small, low-flying unmanned aerial systems, a growing threat in modern warfare.
The approval for Long Range Guided Rockets is expected to substantially enhance the range and accuracy of the Pinaka MRLS, enabling effective engagement of high-value targets deep inside enemy territory. Additionally, the upgraded Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction System Mk-II, with its enhanced range, will provide robust protection to vital military assets in both tactical battle areas and hinterland locations.
For the Indian Navy, the DAC accorded AoN for the procurement of Bollard Pull (BP) Tugs, High Frequency Software Defined Radios (HF SDR) Manpack, and the leasing of High Altitude Long Range (HALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS). The BP Tugs will play a crucial role in assisting naval ships and submarines during berthing, unberthing, and maneuvering in confined harbor waters. The HF SDR Manpack radios will strengthen long-range secure communications during boarding and landing operations, while the HALE RPAS will ensure persistent intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, enhancing maritime domain awareness across the Indian Ocean Region.
