New Delhi, 29 December (H.S.): In a significant push toward self-reliance and modernization of the armed forces, the Central Government has cleared defence acquisition proposals worth ₹79,000 crore, aimed at enhancing the operational capabilities of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.

The approval came during the meeting of the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday. These initiatives are expected to accelerate the integration of advanced technologies and improve the preparedness of India’s defence forces amid evolving security challenges.

Indian Army Upgrades: Firepower and Surveillance

The DAC sanctioned the refurbishment of T-90 Main Battle Tanks and mid-life upgrades for the Mi-17 helicopters, measures that will extend the service life of essential combat platforms.In addition, approvals were granted for the procurement of:Loiter Munition systems for precise tactical strikes,Low-Level Light Weight Radars (LLLWR) to detect and track small, low-flying unmanned aerial systems,Long-Range Guided Rockets for the Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher System, enhancing its strike range and lethality, andThe Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction System Mk-II, which features extended detection range to secure vital military assets.

These systems collectively aim to boost battlefield surveillance, offensive capability, and tactical readiness across multiple theatres.

Naval Enhancements: Surveillance and Maneuver Support

For the Indian Navy, the council granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for:Acquisition of Bollard Pull Tugs to aid ships and submarines in harbor maneuvering,Procurement of High-Frequency Software Defined Radio (Manpack) systems to improve long-range, secure communication during boarding and landing operations, andLease of High-Altitude Long-Endurance Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) to enhance continuous intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities over the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

Officials stated that these systems will significantly elevate maritime situational awareness and naval communication resilience in high-risk zones.

Indian Air Force: Precision and Training Modernization

For the Indian Air Force (IAF), the DAC approved the acquisition of Automatic Take-Off and Landing Recording Systems, Astra Mk-II Air-to-Air Missiles, Full Mission Simulators for the LCA Tejas, and Spice-1000 Long-Range Guidance Kits.The Automatic Recording System will ensure high-definition, all-weather documentation of landings and take-offs, improving aviation safety monitoring. The extended-range Astra Mk-II missile will equip combat aircraft with enhanced beyond-visual-range (BVR) engagement capability, improving deterrence and air superiority.

Similarly, the Full Mission Simulator for Tejas will enable cost-effective and safe pilot training, while the Spice-1000 system will bolster the IAF’s precision strike capability across long distances.

Emergency Procurement Powers Extended

The ministry also extended the emergency procurement powers of the armed forces until January 15, 2026, allowing them to finalize agreements under the special provisions granted after Operation Sindhur. The earlier deadline of November 19 has been relaxed to ensure the forces remain well-prepared for any contingency.These emergency powers empower the services to fast-track procurements in response to immediate operational needs without procedural delays.

Defence experts view this move as part of a broader strategic effort to strengthen readiness in the face of emerging regional and global security dynamics.

Defence officials emphasized that all approvals under the ₹79,000-crore package align with the “Make in India” and “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” vision — ensuring maximum indigenous content and promoting domestic defence manufacturing.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar