India Greenlights Rs 3.60 Lakh Crore Defence Acquisition Proposals for Military Modernization
In a landmark move aimed at bolstering national security, India has cleared defence acquisition proposals valued at an impressive Rs 3.60 lakh crore. This decision marks one of the most significant capability enhancement drives witnessed in recent years, underscoring a strategic push towards modernizing the armed forces. The Defence Acquisition Council, under the leadership of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, granted Acceptance of Necessity for a diverse array of platforms and munitions. The approvals span across the Indian Air Force, Army, Navy, and Coast Guard, with a pronounced emphasis on promoting indigenous manufacturing to reduce dependency on foreign suppliers and boost the domestic defence industry.
Indian Air Force: Strengthening Air Dominance and Surveillance
At the core of the Air Force approvals is the Multi Role Fighter Aircraft programme, designed to acquire advanced 4.5 generation fighters. This initiative aims to address squadron shortages and reinforce air superiority capabilities. While the Dassault Rafale already operates within the IAF fleet, the MRFA programme is anticipated to expand these numbers or introduce similar high-capability aircraft. These fighters will be equipped with state-of-the-art avionics, AESA radar systems, electronic warfare suites, and long-range precision strike weapons, making them versatile for roles such as air dominance, deep penetration strikes, maritime attacks, and nuclear delivery. A significant portion of the manufacturing is expected to occur within India, aligning with broader defence indigenization objectives.
Additionally, the approvals encompass a range of combat missiles to enhance beyond visual range air combat and precision strike capabilities. These include advanced air-to-air missiles, stand-off weapons, and potentially air-launched cruise missiles. Modern combat missiles extend engagement ranges, allowing pilots to neutralize threats before entering hostile airspace, while precision strike munitions enable deep attacks on strategic targets with minimal collateral damage.
To bolster persistent Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance, the Air Force will procure Airborne High Altitude Platform Systems. These unmanned, high-endurance aerial platforms operate at stratospheric altitudes for extended durations, functioning as pseudo-satellites. They provide continuous ISR coverage, communications relay, and target tracking, thereby enhancing battlefield awareness and supporting network-centric warfare strategies.
Indian Army: Enhancing Armoured Capabilities and Battlefield Logistics
The Army's acquisitions focus on strengthening defensive and offensive operations. Key approvals include the procurement of Vibhav Anti Tank Mines, designed to disable or destroy armoured vehicles through detonation under heavy weight or pressure. Modern variants feature anti-handling mechanisms to prevent tampering and are engineered for higher lethality against main battle tanks, forming a critical layer of ground defence along sensitive borders.
Furthermore, the Army will undertake an overhaul and life extension of the T-72 tank fleet, which remains a backbone of India's armoured regiments. Upgrades are set to include improved fire control systems, thermal sights, enhanced armour protection, and engine refurbishment, extending service life and improving survivability and battlefield performance.
Upgradation of BMP-2 infantry combat vehicles and Armoured Recovery Vehicles will enhance mobility and mechanized warfare capability. The BMP-2 provides troop transport with fire support, equipped with cannons and anti-tank guided missiles, while refurbishment ensures better engine reliability, communication systems, and protection levels. Recovery vehicles are essential for battlefield logistics, enabling the retrieval of damaged armour under combat conditions.
Indian Navy: Boosting Maritime Strike and Power Generation
The Navy's approvals include the development of 04 MW Marine Gas Turbine Power Generators under the Make I category, which are crucial for warship propulsion and onboard systems. Gas turbines facilitate high-speed manoeuvres and sustained maritime operations, with indigenous development enhancing self-reliance in critical propulsion technologies.
Additionally, the Navy will induct additional Boeing P-8I Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft to boost anti-submarine warfare and maritime domain awareness. Equipped with advanced radar, sonobuoys, anti-ship missiles, and torpedoes, the P-8I plays a central role in tracking submarines and surface vessels across the Indian Ocean Region, thereby enhancing maritime strike capability and deterrence.
Indian Coast Guard: Improving Maritime Surveillance
The Coast Guard will equip its Dornier 228 aircraft with Electro Optical and Infrared systems, providing day and night surveillance capabilities. These EO-IR sensors enable the detection of vessels, suspicious activities, and environmental threats, strengthening coastal security, anti-smuggling operations, and search and rescue missions.
This comprehensive defence acquisition drive reflects India's commitment to modernizing its military forces through indigenous manufacturing and advanced technology, ensuring enhanced readiness and security in an evolving global landscape.
