Defence Ministry Approves Proposals Worth $17.4 Billion for Future-ready Combat Vehicles, Radars and More
Boost local industries and reduce dependency on foreign suppliers

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), under the chairmanship of Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh on September 03, 2024, approved 10 capital acquisition proposals worth Rs 1.45 lakh crore (approximately USD 17.4 billion) in a major step towards enhancing India's defence capabilities.

The acquisitions include advanced weaponry, surveillance systems, and other critical technologies, which will enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian armed forces.

A significant portion of these acquisitions focus on promoting indigenous defense manufacturing under the ‘Make in India’ initiative. This could boost local industries and reduce dependency on foreign suppliers.

Of the total cost of all 10 approved proposals, 99% is from indigenous sources under Buy (Indian) and Buy (lndian-Indigenously Designed Developed and Manufactured) categories.

For modernisation of the tank fleet of the Indian Army, the proposal for procurement of Future Ready Combat Vehicles (FRCVs) has been cleared. The FRCV will be a futuristic Main Battle Tank with superior mobility, all terrain ability, multilayered protections, precision & lethal fires over and real-time situational awareness.

The Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) was also accorded for procurement of Air Defence Fire Control Radars, which will detect & track aerial target and provide firing solution. The proposal has also been approved for Forward Repair Team (Tracked) which has suitable cross country mobility for carrying out in-situ repair during mechanised operations. This equipment is designed & developed by Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited, and is authorised for both mechanised Infantry Battalion and Armoured Regiment.

Three AoNs have been accorded to enhance the capabilities of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG). The procurement of Dornier-228 aircraft, Next Generation Fast Patrol Vessels having high operational features in rough weather conditions and Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels with advanced technology and enhanced long-range operations, will enhance the capability of ICG to carry out surveillance, patrolling of maritime zone, search & rescue and disaster relief operations.

Towards the end of the meeting, the Defence Minister took a moment to honour late Indian Coast Guard (ICG) DG Rakesh Pal, who was also a member of DAC. The DG passed away due to a heart attack in Chennai on August 18, 2024. Shri Rajnath Singh highlighted DG Rakesh Pal’s remarkable contributions to the growth and expansion of ICG. He conveyed heartfelt condolences, prayers and unwavering support on behalf of the Ministry of Defence to the bereaved family. In a solemn tribute, all members of DAC then stood up to observe a moment of silence, paying their respects to late DG Rakesh Pal whose legacy will continue to inspire.

These acquisitions is aimed at modernizing the armed forces and ensuring better preparedness for various security challenges.

The projects will focus on developing and manufacturing defense equipment within India, promoting self-reliance and boosting the local defense industry.

These proposals are expected to significantly enhance India's defense preparedness and contribute to the overall modernization of the armed forces.
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