In a decisive step to strengthen India’s defence preparedness and future-proof its armed forces, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has approved defence procurement proposals worth nearly Rs 79,000 crore. The landmark clearance is being seen as one of the most significant military modernisation moves in recent years, aimed at enhancing the operational capabilities of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force amid rising regional and global security challenges.
The approved acquisitions span a wide range of advanced weapon systems, missiles, radars, drones, and next-generation military platforms, designed to significantly improve India’s combat readiness, surveillance capacity, and rapid response capability across all domains—land, sea, air, and space.
Strengthening Combat Readiness and Deterrence
According to senior defence officials, the newly approved proposals focus heavily on modern warfare requirements, including precision strike systems, enhanced air defence mechanisms, and maritime security assets. The move is expected to strengthen India’s ability to counter conventional and asymmetric threats, especially along sensitive borders and in strategically important maritime zones.
A major emphasis has been placed on advanced missile systems capable of neutralising aerial, naval, and ground-based threats. These systems will play a crucial role in improving India’s deterrence posture and ensuring swift retaliation in case of hostile action.
Big Push for Surveillance, Radars and Drones
One of the most notable aspects of the approval is the focus on next-generation radar systems and unmanned platforms. The acquisition of sophisticated radars will significantly enhance airspace monitoring, early warning systems, and border surveillance, allowing Indian forces to detect and respond to threats faster than ever before.
In line with global military trends, drones and unmanned systems have emerged as a key priority. These platforms will strengthen intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR) missions and enable precision operations with reduced risk to personnel. Defence experts say this will give India a critical technological edge in modern conflict scenarios.
Boost to Aatmanirbhar Bharat in Defence
Beyond military strength, the procurement drive is also expected to deliver a major boost to the government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. A significant portion of the approved equipment is likely to be sourced from indigenous defence manufacturers, promoting domestic innovation, reducing import dependence, and strengthening India’s defence industrial base.
Officials noted that the push for local manufacturing will generate employment, support MSMEs, and position India as a global defence production hub.
Strategic Message Amid Global Uncertainty
The timing of the approval is significant, coming amid heightened geopolitical tensions and evolving security dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region. With this move, the government has sent a clear signal of its commitment to national security, strategic deterrence, and long-term military modernisation.
Defence analysts believe the Rs 79,000 crore clearance underscores India’s determination to keep its armed forces technologically superior, operationally agile, and fully prepared to meet future challenges.
As India accelerates its defence transformation, the latest DAC approval marks a crucial milestone in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty and strategic interests in an increasingly uncertain world.
