Source TOI
NEW DELHI – In a significant move to bolster India’s national security and military readiness, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, on Friday granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for a flurry of capital procurement proposals worth approximately ₹2.38 lakh crore.
The approvals span all wings of the military—the Army, Air Force, and Coast Guard—and emphasize a strategic mix of high-tech imports and “Make in India” initiatives.
Air Force: Strengthening the Skies
The Indian Air Force (IAF) emerged as a major beneficiary of the latest DAC meeting. Key highlights include:
S-400 ‘Sudarshan’ Systems: The Council cleared the acquisition of five additional squadrons of the S-400 Long Range Surface-to-Air Missile system. This move follows the successful deployment of earlier units and aims to create a “dense protective dome” over critical national assets.
Su-30 MKI Overhaul: To maintain the edge of India’s frontline fighter fleet, a massive project for the overhaul of Sukhoi-30 aero-engine aggregates was approved. This will ensure the long-term operational availability of the Russian-origin jets.
Transport & Unmanned Jets: The DAC also greenlit the procurement of 60 Medium Transport Aircraft (to replace the aging An-32 and Il-76 fleet) and indigenous Remotely Piloted Strike Aircraft (RPSA) for high-endurance surveillance and precision strikes.
Army: Precision and Mobility
For the Indian Army, the focus remained on modernization of artillery and communication:
Artillery & Ammunition: Approvals were granted for the Dhanush Gun System and new High-Mobility Gun Towing Vehicles. The Army will also receive advanced Armoured Piercing Tank Ammunition.
Air Defense & Surveillance: The Air Defence Tracked System was cleared to provide real-time control and reporting, alongside a Runway Independent Aerial Surveillance System to monitor border activities more effectively.
Coast Guard: Enhanced Coastal Security
To fortify India’s vast coastline, the DAC approved the procurement of Heavy Duty Air Cushion Vehicles (ACVs), or hovercrafts. These vessels are slated for multipurpose roles, including high-speed patrolling, search and rescue, and reconnaissance in shallow waters and marshy terrains where traditional ships cannot operate.
Strategic Context: A Record-Breaking Year
Officials noted that in the 2025-26 fiscal year, the DAC has granted AoNs for 55 proposals worth a staggering ₹6.73 lakh crore, marking the highest ever in a single financial year.
“The focus remains on enhancing combat readiness and supporting the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India) initiative,” a Ministry of Defence spokesperson said. “By fast-tracking these deals, we are ensuring that our forces stay ahead of evolving regional security challenges.”
The approvals also come on the heels of reports detailing the effective performance of the S-400 system during recent border tensions, reinforcing the government’s decision to double down on long-range precision defense.
