Defence Acquisition Council Approves ₹79,000 Crore for Modernising Armed Forces

In a significant move to enhance India’s defence capabilities, the Defence Acquisition Council, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has approved proposals worth nearly ₹79,000 crore. The decisions cover major procurements across the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, reflecting the government’s focus on modernisation and strengthening operational readiness.

For the Indian Army, approval has been granted for the procurement of the Nag Missile System (Tracked) Mk-II (NAMIS), a state-of-the-art anti-tank guided missile capable of precision strikes. The Army will also acquire Ground Based Mobile ELINT Systems (GBMES) for advanced electronic intelligence gathering, and High Mobility Vehicles (HMVs) equipped with Material Handling Cranes to enhance logistical support and battlefield mobility.

The Indian Navy will see significant upgrades with the acquisition of Landing Platform Docks (LPD) to boost amphibious and maritime operations. Modernisation also includes 30mm Naval Surface Guns (NSG), Advanced Lightweight Torpedoes (ALWT), Electro-Optical Infra-Red Search and Track Systems, and smart ammunition for the 76mm Super Rapid Gun Mount, which will collectively enhance the Navy’s precision strike and surveillance capabilities.

For the Indian Air Force, approvals include the Collaborative Long Range Target Saturation/Destruction System (CLRTS/DS), an advanced system capable of autonomous take-off, landing, navigation, target detection, and payload delivery. Additional projects for the Air Force aim to improve strategic strike and mission flexibility.

This comprehensive procurement package underscores India’s commitment to modernising its defence forces with advanced technology and improved operational efficiency. By investing in indigenous and cutting-edge systems, the armed forces are poised to strengthen national security and maintain readiness in a rapidly evolving strategic environment. The Defence Ministry emphasised that these acquisitions are part of a long-term vision to equip the Indian military with modern, high-tech platforms and ensure operational superiority across land, sea, and air domains.