Defence Ministry Approves Proposals For HELINA ATGM, Air Defence Systems
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A meeting of the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), held on January 10, 2023, under the chairmanship of Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh, accorded Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for three capital acquisition proposals, amounting to Rs 4,276 crore. All three proposals – two of the Indian Army and one of the Indian Navy – are under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category.
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The DAC accorded AoN for procurement of HELINA Anti-Tank Guided Missiles, launchers and associated support equipment which will be integrated into the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH). This missile is an essential part of the weaponisation of ALH for countering enemy threats. Its induction will strengthen the offensive capability of the Indian Army.
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The DAC also accorded AoN for procurement of the VSHORAD (IR Homing) missile system under design and development by DRDO. In view of the recent developments along the Northern borders, there is a need to focus on effective Air Defence (AD) weapon systems which are man-portable and can be deployed quickly in rugged terrain and maritime domain. Procurement of VSHORAD, as a robust and quickly deployable system, will strengthen the Air Defence capabilities.
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Further, the DAC granted approval for the procurement of a Brahmos Launcher and Fire Control System (FCS) for the Shivalik class of ships & Next Generation Missile Vessels (NGMVs) for Indian Navy. With their induction, these ships would have enhanced capability of carrying out maritime strike operations, interdicting and destroying enemy warships and merchant vessels