Govt approves 5 proposals worth ₹21,772 cr to boost defence preparedness

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Rajnath Singh-led DAC approved the procurement of 31 new water jet fast attack crafts for the Indian Navy, which will carry out low-intensity maritime ops

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh | Credits: PIB

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) under Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved five capital acquisition proposals amounting to over ₹21,772 crore. DAC approved the procurement of 31 new water jet fast attack crafts (NWJFACs) for the Indian Navy. The development comes after the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved 10 capital acquisition proposals amounting to ₹1,44,716 crore in September 2024.

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The Centre says NWJFACs are designed to perform the task of low-intensity maritime operations, surveillance, patrol, and search and rescue (SAR) operations close to the coast. In addition, these vessels will play an effective role in anti-piracy missions, especially in and around the Island territories of the country.

DAC also accorded AoN for the procurement of 120 fast interceptor craft (FIC-1). These vessels are capable of performing multiple roles, including escorting high-value units such as aircraft carriers, destroyers, and frigates, submarines for coastal defence.

AoN for the procurement of an electronic warfare suite (EWS) comprising external airborne self-protection jammer pods, next-generation radar warning receiver and associated equipment for Su-30 MKI aircraft was accorded by DAC. The system will enhance the operational capabilities of SU-30 MKI and protect it from enemy radars and related weapon systems while carrying out a mission against enemy targets protected by air defence systems.

DAC accorded AoN for the procurement of 6 Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) M (MR) for the Indian Coast Guard to strengthen the coastal security and surveillance in the coastal areas. It has also accorded approval for the overhaul of T-72 & T-90 tanks, BMP- and engines of Sukhoi fighter aircraft, which will enhance the service life of these assets, the ministry says.

The DAC had approved 10 defence proposals worth ₹1,44,716 crore in September 2024. Around 99% of these are from indigenous sources. For the modernisation of the tank fleet of the Indian Army, the proposal for procurement of future-ready combat vehicles (FRCVs) was cleared. The FRCV is a futuristic Main Battle Tank, with superior mobility, all-terrain ability, multi-layered protections, precision & lethal fires over and real-time situational awareness, as per the ministry.

The approval was also accorded for the procurement of air defence fire control radars, which will detect and track aerial targets and provide firing solutions. Besides, three approvals were accorded to enhance the capabilities of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG). These were with regards to 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.

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