Defence Acquisition Council

Defence Acquisition Council Approves ₹1.44 Lakh Crore Worth of Military Procurements

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has given the green light to a significant military procurement plan, approving 10 key capital acquisitions. The approval, amounting to ₹1,44,716 crore, is aimed at modernizing India’s defence capabilities with a strong emphasis on indigenously designed and developed systems. Among the notable procurements are Future-Ready Combat Vehicles (FRCVs), air defence fire control radars, and Dornier-228 aircraft. This approval signals a major push towards self-reliance in India’s defence sector, in line with the ‘Make in India’ initiative.

Key Capital Acquisitions Approved by DAC

1. Future-Ready Combat Vehicles (FRCVs)

One of the most prominent acquisitions is the Future-Ready Combat Vehicles (FRCVs), which will be a next-generation Main Battle Tank for the Indian Army. These FRCVs will feature superior mobility, multi-terrain adaptability, and advanced layered protection. They are also equipped with precision weaponry, lethal firepower, and real-time situational awareness systems. This acquisition is critical for modernizing the Indian Army’s tank fleet and enhancing its operational capabilities in future conflicts.

2. Air Defence Fire Control Radars

The DAC has also approved the procurement of Air Defence Fire Control Radars. These radars will play a pivotal role in detecting and tracking aerial targets, providing real-time firing solutions to the air defence units. This system will significantly enhance India’s airspace defence capabilities by offering quick and accurate responses to potential airborne threats.

3. Forward Repair Team (Tracked)

To support mechanized operations, the DAC has cleared the procurement of the Forward Repair Team (Tracked). This equipment is designed to perform in-situ repairs during mechanized operations with high cross-country mobility. Developed by Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited, the Forward Repair Team will be deployed with both mechanized Infantry Battalions and Armoured Regiments. This procurement is set to increase the operational readiness of India’s mechanized forces in various terrains.

Strengthening Indigenous Defence Manufacturing

An important aspect of the DAC’s decision is the emphasis on sourcing 99% of these acquisitions from indigenous manufacturers. The defence procurements fall under the Buy (Indian) and Buy (Indian-Indigenously Designed, Developed, and Manufactured) categories. This aligns with the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative, which seeks to reduce dependency on foreign imports and boost domestic manufacturing capabilities in the defence sector.

Enhancing the Indian Coast Guard’s Capabilities

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) is set to receive significant upgrades as well, with three key Acceptance of Necessities (AoNs) being approved by the DAC. These include:

• Dornier-228 Aircraft: The procurement of this aircraft will bolster the Coast Guard’s capabilities in maritime surveillance, search and rescue operations, and disaster relief efforts.
• Next-Generation Fast Patrol Vessels (NGFPVs): These vessels are designed to operate efficiently even in rough weather conditions and will enhance the Coast Guard’s ability to patrol India’s vast maritime zones.
• Next-Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels (NGOPVs): Equipped with advanced technology, these long-range vessels will strengthen the Coast Guard’s ability to perform maritime surveillance, anti-smuggling operations, and ensure the protection of India’s exclusive economic zone.

Supporting Indian Army’s Mechanized Forces

The procurement of modern equipment such as the Forward Repair Team (Tracked) will boost the Indian Army’s capacity to maintain its mechanized units during operations. With cross-country mobility and repair capabilities, this equipment ensures that damaged vehicles can be repaired quickly, improving operational sustainability during intense mechanized warfare.

Conclusion:

The approval of these ₹1.44 lakh crore capital acquisitions by the Defence Acquisition Council underscores India’s commitment to modernizing its military capabilities. The focus on indigenously developed systems highlights the country’s growing emphasis on self-reliance, while also ensuring that the armed forces are equipped with the latest technology to face evolving security challenges. As India moves forward with these acquisitions, the country is poised to strengthen its defence capabilities, ensuring better preparedness and security for the future.

FAQs:

1.What is the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC)?

A. The DAC is responsible for making decisions on capital acquisitions for the Indian Armed Forces, ensuring that the military is adequately equipped.

2.What is the value of the military acquisitions approved by DAC?

A. The DAC has approved military acquisitions worth ₹1,44,716 crore.

3.What are Future-Ready Combat Vehicles (FRCVs)?

A. FRCVs are advanced Main Battle Tanks with superior mobility, multi-terrain capability, and modern protective systems for the Indian Army.

4.Why are indigenous sources important in these acquisitions?

A. Indigenous sources promote self-reliance in defence manufacturing, reducing dependence on foreign imports and fostering domestic innovation.

5.What are Air Defence Fire Control Radars?

A. These radars detect and track aerial threats, providing real-time firing solutions to air defence units.

6.What will the Dornier-228 aircraft be used for?

A. The Dornier-228 aircraft will be used by the Indian Coast Guard for maritime surveillance, search and rescue operations, and disaster relief.

7.What are Next-Generation Fast Patrol Vessels (NGFPVs)?

A. NGFPVs are advanced patrol vessels designed for maritime security operations, particularly in rough weather conditions.

8.What role will the Forward Repair Team (Tracked) play in the Indian Army?

A. The Forward Repair Team (Tracked) will ensure quick, on-site repairs of mechanized units during operations, improving operational efficiency.

9.What is the significance of Buy (Indian) and Buy (Indian-Indigenously Designed Developed and Manufactured) categories?

A. These categories prioritize domestic manufacturing, supporting India’s self-reliance goals in the defence sector.

10.How will these acquisitions impact India’s military capabilities?

A. These acquisitions will significantly modernize the Indian military, enhancing its operational readiness and ability to respond to various security challenges.

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