Defence acquisition proposals worth ₹3.60 lakh crore approved to strengthen the armed forces

¨     On 12 February, the proposals worth nearly ₹3.60 lakh crore have been cleared by the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) to enhance military capabilities.

¨     Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) has been accorded for the procurement of Multi Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) Rafale, Combat Missiles and Air-Ship Based High Altitude Pseudo Satellite (AS-HAPS) for the Indian Air Force (IAF).

¨     The majority of the fighter aircraft proposed for procurement will be manufactured in India.

¨     Enhanced deterrence capability across the spectrum of conflict is expected to be achieved through these acquisitions.

¨     Combat missiles will strengthen long-range ground attack capability with high precision.

¨     Procurement approval has also been granted for anti-tank mines and overhaul of armoured recovery vehicles and tanks for the Army.

¨     For the Navy, clearance has been given for marine gas turbine-based generators and P8I maritime reconnaissance aircraft.

¨     An electro-optical and infra-red system for Dornier aircraft has been approved for the Indian Coast Guard.

¨     A contract worth ₹2,312 crore has been signed with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for eight Dornier 228 aircraft.

¨     The acquisitions reinforce the commitment to Aatmanirbhar Bharat and aim to strengthen India’s maritime and defence security architecture.