DAC approves ₹84,560 crore capital acquisition boost for armed forces and coast guard

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has given the green light to capital acquisition proposals worth ₹84,560 crore to enhance the capabilities of the Armed Forces and the Indian Coast Guard. The approvals, granted under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative on February 16, 2024, emphasize sourcing equipment from Indian vendors.

Noteworthy acquisitions include new generation anti-tank mines with seismic sensors, Canister Launched Anti-Armour Loiter Munition Systems, Air Defence Tactical Control Radar, Medium Range Maritime Reconnaissance, Multi-Mission Maritime Aircraft, Active Towed Array Sonar, Heavy Weight Torpedoes, Flight Refueller Aircraft for the Indian Air Force, and Software Defined Radios for the Indian Coast Guard. These acquisitions aim to fortify engagement capabilities, surveillance, interdiction, and operational reach while staying ahead of potential threats.

The DAC's focus on cutting-edge technologies aligns with the government's vision of 'Ease of Doing Business,' as amendments in the Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2020 have been sanctioned to support defense startups and streamline benchmarking, cost computation, payment schedules, and procurement quantities under the Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) and Technology Development Fund (TDF) schemes.

The approval for sustainment support for MH60R aircraft through the Foreign Military Sale route with the US Government further underscores the commitment to enhancing operational readiness. These developments signify a strategic step towards reinforcing India's defense capabilities and fostering a self-reliant defense ecosystem.