New Delhi: In a major push to strengthen India’s military preparedness and operational capabilities, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has approved defence procurement proposals worth around ₹1.10 lakh crore for the Army, Navy and Air Force.
The approved acquisitions include helicopters, advanced radars, CBRN reconnaissance vehicles, mine-laying systems, mobile bridging equipment and several other modern military platforms. A major feature of the procurement package is its strong emphasis on indigenous defence manufacturing.
Rajnath Singh said on social media that nearly 98 per cent of the approved procurement value would be sourced from Indian companies. The move is expected to strengthen domestic defence manufacturing, encourage research and development and reduce the armed forces’ dependence on foreign imports.
Army to Get More Helicopters and Advanced Equipment
The Indian Army will acquire additional indigenous Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) Dhruv and Rudra helicopters. These platforms will support troop movement, logistics and emergency operations, particularly in challenging and difficult terrains.
The Army will also receive high-mobility vehicles designed to transport personnel and military supplies across mountainous and inaccessible areas.
The procurement package includes Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) reconnaissance vehicles. These specialised platforms will enhance the forces’ ability to detect, monitor and conduct reconnaissance in areas affected by hazardous substances or CBRN threats.
Enhanced Mine Warfare and Bridging Capability
The DAC has also approved the procurement of self-propelled mechanical mine layers for the Army. These systems will enable troops to rapidly lay minefields when required during military operations.
Trawl tank systems have also been included to help detect and clear enemy-laid mines and create safe passages for tanks and other armoured vehicles.
To improve the armed forces’ ability to cross rivers, streams and other water obstacles, the Army will acquire the Sarvatra mobile bridging system. The system is designed to facilitate the rapid construction of temporary bridges, enabling heavy military vehicles to move across difficult terrain during operations.
Navy to Receive Advanced Arudhra Radar
The Indian Navy will acquire the Arudhra radar system as part of efforts to modernise its air surveillance capabilities. The new radar is expected to replace older air route surveillance radar systems installed at naval air stations, strengthening both aerial surveillance and air traffic monitoring.
The procurement package also places emphasis on indigenous marine gas turbines used aboard warships. The focus will be on designing and manufacturing these systems domestically, with the broader objective of increasing the share of Indian technology in naval platforms and reducing dependence on foreign suppliers.
Sukhoi Fleet and Air Force Capabilities to Be Upgraded
For the Indian Air Force, the approved proposals include upgrades and systems related to Sukhoi fighter aircraft, helicopters and transport aircraft. The measures are aimed at improving the operational effectiveness and service life of key platforms.
The Air Force will also acquire jammers to strengthen its electronic warfare capabilities. In addition, a secure access card system for controlled entry and identification within defence establishments will form part of the procurement programme.
Major Boost for Defence Self-Reliance
The decision to source around 98 per cent of the procurement from Indian companies marks a significant step towards strengthening the country’s indigenous defence ecosystem.
The large-scale procurement is expected to provide a major boost to domestic manufacturing, innovation, research and development and the wider industrial base supporting the defence sector.
The government’s approach combines the induction of modern military technologies with a sustained focus on defence self-reliance. The latest approvals are aimed at enhancing the preparedness of all three services and improving their ability to respond rapidly and effectively across diverse operational environments.
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