The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has cleared a series of high-value procurement proposals worth approximately ₹67,000 crore. The approvals are aimed at modernizing the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force with advanced systems and platforms tailored for future operational readiness.
This large-scale procurement comes on the heels of Operation Sindoor, India’s swift military response to the recent Pahalgam terror attack, underscoring the government’s commitment to enhancing national security and rapid response capabilities.
Army: Night Vision for Enhanced Mobility
The Indian Army is set to receive thermal imager-based driver night sights, a critical upgrade that will significantly improve the mobility and combat efficiency of mechanised infantry units during night-time operations. The technology is expected to provide a strategic edge in nocturnal battlefield scenarios.
Navy: Firepower and Missile Upgrades
The Indian Navy will benefit from the induction of BrahMos fire control systems and launchers, fortifying its maritime strike capabilities. Additionally, the BARAK-1 missile system—a key air defence asset—will undergo a comprehensive upgrade to enhance its operational effectiveness against aerial threats.
Air Force: Surveillance and Air Defence Boost
For the Indian Air Force, the DAC has approved the procurement of mountain radars, specially designed to operate in high-altitude regions, improving airspace monitoring along India’s rugged frontiers. The IAF will also receive an upgraded SAKSHAM/SPYDER weapon system, bolstering the country’s integrated air defence network with faster response and improved tracking.
MALE Drones for 24/7 Surveillance
All three armed services will acquire Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) drones, a strategic asset that enables round-the-clock surveillance. These drones are expected to play a vital role in intelligence, reconnaissance, and real-time battlefield awareness.
The approvals mark a decisive step in India’s continued efforts to indigenize defence production and equip its armed forces with next-generation technologies. The acquisitions are in line with the Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative, with a focus on boosting domestic defence manufacturing and reducing dependency on foreign imports.
Strategic Impact
A defence ministry official noted that these procurements are “designed to address evolving security threats and enhance operational synergy across the services.”
The DAC’s greenlighting of these projects reflects a strategic shift toward integrated, technologically advanced, and rapid-response military capability—ensuring India’s preparedness in a dynamic geopolitical landscape.
