The Defense Ministry's Defense Acquisition Council (DAC) has given the green light to defense purchases and upgrades worth approximately 790 billion. This pivotal decision is set to bolster the combat capabilities of the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy, encompassing the upgrade of aging armaments, procurement of new advanced weapons, and indigenous development initiatives.
T-90 Bhishma Tank Overhaul:
Approximately 200 T-90 tanks will undergo a mid-life upgrade and overhaul domestically handled by the Defense Public Sector Unit (DPSU). This will extend the lifespan and enhance their battlefield prowess.
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Source: aajtak
Upgraded Mi-17 Helicopters:
The medium-lift Mi-17 helicopters will undergo a mid-life upgrade, boosting operational readiness and reliability.
Loitering Munitions:
Approval has been granted for acquiring loitering munitions for modern warfare. These suicide drones scout enemy positions for precise strikes.
MRSAM Missiles:
Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missiles (MRSAM) will be procured for the Navy and Air Force, reinforcing aerial and maritime defenses.
Astra Mark-2 and Meteor Missiles:
The Air Force will develop and acquire a significant number of Astra Mark-2 air-to-air missiles, boasting over a 200 km range, alongside some Meteor missiles.
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SPICE-1000 Bombs:
Discussions are underway to purchase a large quantity of Israel's SPICE-1000 air-to-ground guided bombs renowned for their precision strikes.
Pinaka Rocket Development:
The development of a new Pinaka rocket with a 120-kilometer range has been approved, capable of being launched from existing 45 km and 80 km Pinaka launchers.
Air-to-Air Refuelers and AWACS:
Modifications to the Request for Proposal (RFP) for the acquisition of in-flight refueling tankers and Airborne Warning and Control Systems (AWACS), crucial for long-range air operations, have been approved.
Lease for Sea Guardian Drones:
The decision to lease two MQ-9B High-Altitude Long-Endurance (HALE) Sea Guardian drones from the USA for three years is imminent. India has already agreed to purchase 31 such drones, with deliveries commencing in 2028.
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Modernization: Breathing new life into old tanks and helicopters.
Advanced Combat Capability: Drones, loitering munitions, and long-range missiles enable swift and precise strikes.
Indigenous Push: Projects like T-90 Overhaul, Pinaka, and Astra propel India's self-reliance.
Long-range Strength: The air force's reach expands with refuelers, AWACS, and long-range weapons.
Senior Defense Ministry officials and chiefs of the three armed forces participated in the DAC meeting. These decisions are set to elevate the combat readiness of Indian armed forces and convey a strong message along the borders. These proposals will proceed to the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) for approval, following which contracts will be awarded.
