The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), Chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has approved five major capital acquisition proposals worth over Rs 21,772 crore. The approvals, announced by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) on Tuesday, include advanced ships for the Indian Navy, helicopters for the Indian Coast Guard, an electronic warfare suite for the Indian Air Force (IAF), and critical upgrades to tanks, vehicles, and aircraft engines.
Strengthening Naval Capabilities
Water Jet Fast Attack Crafts
The DAC has granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for 31 new water jet fast attack crafts for the Indian Navy. These vessels are designed for low-intensity maritime operations, coastal surveillance, patrol, search and rescue missions, and anti-piracy operations around India’s island territories, the MoD stated.
Fast Interceptor Crafts
Approval has also been accorded for 120 fast interceptor crafts. These versatile vessels will bolster coastal defence and escort high-value units such as aircraft carriers, destroyers, frigates, and submarines, enhancing operational security along India’s coastline.
Boosting Airborne Combat Efficiency
Electronic Warfare Suite for Su-30 MKI
The DAC has approved the procurement of an advanced electronic warfare suite for the IAF’s Su-30 MKI fighter jets. This system includes external airborne self-protection jammer pods, next-generation radar warning receivers, and associated equipment. According to the MoD, the upgrade will significantly enhance the Su-30 MKI’s operational capabilities, enabling it to evade enemy radars and counter threats from air defence systems during missions.
Enhancing Coastal Security
Advanced Light Helicopters
Six Advanced Light Helicopter Mk-III (Maritime Role) units have been approved for the Indian Coast Guard. These helicopters are expected to bolster coastal surveillance and strengthen maritime security operations.
Extending Service Life of Key Assets
The DAC has also greenlit the overhaul of the Indian Army’s T-72 and T-90 tanks, BMP infantry fighting vehicles, and the engines of Su-30 fighter aircraft. These upgrades aim to extend the service life of these critical defence assets, ensuring sustained operational readiness.
These approvals reaffirm the government’s commitment to modernizing India’s defence forces, with a strong emphasis on indigenization and self-reliance in defence production under the ‘Make in India’ initiative.
Team BharatShakti
