The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) today cleared proposals worth nearly ₹3.60 lakh crore to enhance the capabilities of the Armed Forces. The Defence Ministry has announced that Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) has been granted for the procurement of Multi Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) Rafale, combat missiles, and Air-Ship Based High Altitude Pseudo Satellite (AS-HAPS) for the Indian Air Force (IAF).
The Ministry stated that the procurement of MRFA will enhance the ability to undertake air dominance roles across the entire spectrum of conflict and significantly boost the deterrence capabilities of the IAF with long-range offensive strikes. According to the Ministry, the majority of the MRFA to be procured will be manufactured in India. It added that the combat missiles will enhance the ability to conduct deep strikes with high accuracy.
The Ministry further stated that AoN has been granted for the procurement of Anti-Tank Mines (Vibhav) and the overhaul of Vehicle Platforms of Armoured Recovery Vehicles (ARVs), T-72 Tanks, and Infantry Combat Vehicles for the Indian Army. For the Indian Navy, AoN has been cleared for four MW Marine Gas Turbine-based Electric Power Generators and P8I Long Range Maritime Reconnaissance Aircraft. AoN has also been granted for the procurement of Electro-Optical/Infra-Red system for Dornier aircraft for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG).
Furthermore, the Defence Ministry has signed a contract with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for the acquisition of eight Dornier 228 Aircraft. The Ministry stated today that the contract worth ₹2,312 crore also includes Operational Role Equipment for the Indian Coast Guard. The Ministry of Defence stated that this reinforces the government’s commitment to "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" and "Make-in-India" while bolstering India's maritime security architecture.
