The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh, has cleared major capital acquisition proposals worth over Rs 54,000 crore, significantly enhancing India’s defence preparedness.
The approved proposals include the procurement of advanced military assets for the Indian Navy, Air Force, and Army. According to the MoD, DAC has approved a total of 8 defence acquisition proposals.
Key acquisitions encompass
For the Indian Army, AoN for procurement of a 1350 HP Engine was accorded to upgrade the present 1000 HP Engine for the T-90 Tanks. This upgrade will significantly enhance the mobility, power, and combat effectiveness of one of the Army’s primary armored units, ensuring it remains a formidable force against land-based threats. The move aligns with the Army’s ongoing efforts to modernize its mechanized infantry and maintain a technological edge in tank warfare.
For the Indian Navy, AoN for procurement of Varunastra Torpedoes (Combat) was accorded by DAC. The Varunastra Torpedo is an indigenously developed ship-launched anti-submarine torpedo developed by the Naval Science & Technological Laboratory. Induction of additional quantities of this torpedo would enhance the Navy’s capability against adversaries’ submarine threats. The Varunastra, inducted into service in 2016, has already proven its efficacy in combat trials, including a successful test in 2023 with a live warhead, as noted in recent DRDO reports.
For the Indian Air Force, AoN for procurement of Airborne Early Warning & Control (AEW&C) Aircraft Systems was accorded by DAC. AEW&C systems are capability enhancers that can change the complete spectrum of warfare and exponentially increase the combat potential of every other weapon system. The AEW&C systems, part of the DRDO’s NETRA program, are critical for enhancing India’s air defence network, enabling early detection of aerial threats, and supporting joint operations with the Navy and Army. The first fully modified aircraft for India’s AEW&C system landed in India in 2012, and this new acquisition will further strengthen the Air Force’s aerial dominance.
Additional extended range Brahmos Supersonic Cruise Missiles for Army and Air Force.
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As a part of celebrating 2025 as the ‘Year of Reforms’ in the Ministry of Defence, DAC also approved the guidelines for reducing the timelines at various stages of the Capital Acquisition Process to make it faster, more effective, and efficient. The initiative reflects the government’s focus on cutting bureaucratic delays, promoting transparency, and accelerating the delivery of critical defence equipment to the armed forces. This aligns with broader efforts under the ‘Make in India’ initiative to foster self-reliance in defence manufacturing and reduce dependence on foreign imports.
