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Defence Acquisition Council Approval Strengthens India

Newz Daddy Defence Updates

Defence Acquisition Council Approval Lifts Combat Strength Nationwide

The Defence Acquisition Council has cleared capital acquisition proposals worth about Rs 3.60 lakh crore. This is one of the biggest defence approvals in recent years. The decision was taken under the chairmanship of Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh. Such large approvals are not routine. They usually reflect serious long-term planning based on security reviews, threat assessment and modernisation goals.

For the Indian Air Force, the approval for Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft, widely linked to the Rafale platform, is significant.

The Rafale, built by Dassault Aviation, is a 4.5-generation fighter jet. It can carry out air defence, ground attack and nuclear deterrence roles. The Indian Air Force already operates Rafale jets from Ambala and Hasimara. Defence experts say more aircraft will help fill the gap caused by the retirement of older MiG aircraft. The fact that most of the new jets will be made in India also supports the ‘Make in India’ and self-reliance push. Local manufacturing brings jobs, technology transfer and long-term maintenance support within the country.

The approval for combat missiles is equally important. Modern air warfare depends heavily on stand-off weapons. These allow aircraft to strike from long distances without entering enemy air defence zones. Missiles with deep strike ability and high accuracy reduce risk to pilots and aircraft. India has already strengthened its missile systems through organisations like the Defence Research and Development Organisation. Over time, indigenous missile development has improved India’s strategic strength and reduced dependence on imports.

The Air-Ship Based High Altitude Pseudo Satellite, or AS-HAPS, may sound technical, but its role is clear. It stays at a very high altitude for long periods.

Such systems act like satellites but are cheaper and easier to maintain. They are useful for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance. They can monitor borders, track enemy movement and support secure communications. With long land borders and vast sea areas, India needs constant watch systems. Persistent monitoring improves early warning and quick response.

For the Indian Army, the approval for Anti-Tank Mines called Vibhav shows focus on ground defence. Mines are defensive tools. They slow down enemy tanks and armoured vehicles. In high tension zones, delaying the enemy advance can give valuable time to mobilise forces. Military planners often stress that defensive systems are as important as offensive weapons.

The overhaul of Armoured Recovery Vehicles, T-72 tanks and BMP-II infantry combat vehicles is also practical.

The T-72 has been the backbone of the Army’s armoured fleet for decades. The BMP-II supports infantry in combat zones. Upgrading and overhauling these vehicles extends their life and keeps them battle-ready. It is often more cost-effective to modernise existing platforms than to buy completely new fleets. Improved engines, electronics and protection systems can make older vehicles more capable and safer for soldiers.

For the Indian Navy, the approval for a 4 MW Marine Gas Turbine-based Electric Power Generator under the Make-I category is a clear step towards self-reliance.

Warships require reliable onboard power for radar, weapons, communication and propulsion systems. Earlier, India depended heavily on foreign suppliers for marine gas turbines. Indigenous development reduces the risk of supply disruption during conflict. It also strengthens the Indian industry and technical skills.

The P8I is based on the Boeing 737 platform and is tailored for India. It is used for anti-submarine warfare, maritime surveillance and maritime strike missions. With growing activity in the Indian Ocean Region, such aircraft help track submarines and monitor shipping lanes. Sea lanes are vital for India’s trade and energy imports. Strong maritime surveillance protects national interests and boosts naval deterrence. For the Indian Coast Guard, the approval of Electro-Optical and Infra-Red systems for Dornier aircraft will improve maritime patrol efficiency.

Electro-optical and infrared sensors allow aircraft to see clearly in day and night conditions. They can detect small boats, suspicious movement and distress signals. The Indian Coast Guard handles search and rescue, anti-smuggling and coastal security. Better sensors mean quicker response and stronger coastal monitoring.

Overall, this large approval reflects India’s effort to modernise all three services and the Coast Guard together. It balances new acquisitions with upgrades and indigenous development. In today’s fast-changing security environment, readiness is not just about numbers. It is about technology, speed and reliability. This round of approvals signals that India is planning to stay prepared on land, in the air and at sea.