Defence Ministry Clears Rs 84,560 Crore for Military Hardware Procurement

The Defence Ministry on February 16 approved the procurement of military hardware valued at Rs 84,560 crore, aiming to enhance the overall combat capabilities of the armed forces. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, gave the green light to several proposals, including new generation anti-tank mines, air defence tactical control radar, heavy-weight torpedoes, medium-range maritime reconnaissance, multi-mission maritime aircraft, flight refueler aircraft, and software-defined radios.

The DAC's approval includes the acquisition of medium-range maritime reconnaissance and multi-mission maritime aircraft, intended to reinforce the surveillance and interdiction capabilities of the Indian Navy and the Indian Coast Guard. Additionally, a proposal to procure air defence tactical control radar was sanctioned to strengthen air defence systems, focusing on detecting slow, small, and low-flying targets.

To bolster operational efficiency and dominance in the tactical battle area, particularly for engaging targets beyond visual line of sight by mechanized forces, the DAC granted approval for the procurement of a canister-launched anti-armour loiter munition system under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category. Furthermore, the DAC approved the necessity for procuring a Flight Refueler Aircraft, aiming to enhance the operational capabilities and reach of the Indian Air Force.