India’s Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has approved the procurement of 10 capital acquisitions worth ₹1,44,716 crore (approximately $1.45 trillion). This significant investment prioritizes the modernization of the armed forces with a strong focus on indigenous production.
A key highlight of the acquisitions is the approval for the procurement of Future Ready Combat Vehicles (FRCVs). These futuristic Main Battle Tanks will significantly enhance the Indian Army’s tank fleet with superior mobility, all-terrain capabilities, advanced protection systems, precision firepower, and real-time situational awareness.
The DAC also greenlit the procurement of Air Defence Fire Control Radars, crucial for detecting and tracking aerial targets and providing accurate firing solutions. These radars will strengthen India’s air defense capabilities.
Further bolstering the Indian Army’s mechanized capabilities, the DAC approved the procurement of Forward Repair Teams (Tracked). These teams, designed and developed by Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited, provide in-situ repair capabilities during mechanized operations, crucial for maintaining operational readiness.
To enhance the Indian Coast Guard’s capabilities, the DAC has approved the procurement of Dornier-228 aircraft, Next Generation Fast Patrol Vessels, and Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels. These acquisitions will enhance the Coast Guard’s ability to conduct surveillance, patrol maritime zones, carry out search and rescue missions, and respond to disaster relief operations.
The DAC’s decision to prioritize indigenous production is evident in the fact that 99% of the total cost of Acceptance of Necessity (AoNs) is sourced from Indian companies under the ‘Buy (Indian)’ and ‘Buy (Indian-Indigenously Designed Developed and Manufactured)’ categories. This move underscores India’s commitment to self-reliance in defense manufacturing and strengthens its strategic autonomy.
