India Approves ₹67,000 Crore Defence Modernisation Plan to Enhance Armed Forces' Combat Edge

In a decisive move aimed at strengthening India's military posture across land, air, and sea, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has approved capital acquisition proposals worth approximately ₹67,000 crore. This massive procurement plan, endorsed on August 5, 2025, reflects the government’s continued push to bolster national security amid evolving global and regional challenges. The majority of these proposals fall under the “Buy (Indian-Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured)” category, reaffirming the government's emphasis on self-reliance in defence production.

The DAC approved several proposals to boost the capability of the Indian Armed Forces. (Representative image) | News18

Indian Air Force: Surveillance, Strike, and Strategic Readiness

Among the highlights for the Indian Air Force (IAF) are plans to strengthen airspace surveillance and response mechanisms. The DAC has approved the procurement of state-of-the-art mountain radars capable of operating in high-altitude regions where visibility and access remain limited. These radars will enhance early warning capabilities, particularly across sensitive northern borders.

Further, the IAF will integrate upgraded SPYDER surface-to-air missile systems with the Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS), thereby improving real-time response against airborne threats. Sustainment contracts have also been cleared for key platforms such as the C-17 and C-130J transport aircraft, along with the high-value Russian-origin S-400 air defence system, ensuring continued operational readiness of these strategic assets.

Indian Navy: Unmanned Warfare and Missile Supremacy

The Indian Navy stands to gain significant capability boosts through the acquisition of next-generation technologies, including Compact Autonomous Surface Craft (CASC) designed for anti-submarine operations. These unmanned vessels will operate with high precision in detecting, classifying, and neutralising underwater threats, making them ideal for future maritime warfare.

Also cleared are new BrahMos missile launchers and fire control systems, reinforcing India's maritime strike capabilities. The BrahMos, known for its supersonic speed and precision, has already proven effective during Operation Sindoor, and the Navy’s fresh procurement plans signal its growing centrality in India’s naval doctrine. Additionally, the BARAK-1 point-defence missile system, currently deployed on several warships, will undergo critical upgrades to enhance interception effectiveness.

Indian Army: Night Vision and Ground Dominance

For the Indian Army, the focus remains on enhancing mobility and battlefield visibility. One of the key clearances includes the procurement of thermal imager-based night driving sights for BMP infantry combat vehicles. This upgrade is expected to significantly improve troop maneuverability in night-time or low-visibility operations, especially across difficult terrains.

Meanwhile, plans are underway to induct indigenous Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missiles (QR-SAM) worth ₹30,000 crore to protect mobile formations from aerial attacks. The proposal, currently in advanced stages of approval, will replace older air defence systems and provide fast deployment capability in combat zones.

Tri-Service Expansion: Drones and Spy Planes

In a boost to India’s joint operations doctrine, the DAC also approved the procurement of Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) remotely piloted aircraft systems for tri-service use. These drones will be capable of long-endurance surveillance, target acquisition, and even precision strikes, depending on configuration.

Further bolstering India’s intelligence capabilities, the Ministry of Defence is close to approving a ₹10,000 crore Indigenous Satellite Technology and Reconnaissance (I-STAR) project. These spy planes, being developed by DRDO, will serve as eyes in the sky—capable of monitoring vast swathes of territory and offering real-time targeting intelligence, essential for modern-day military operations.

Indigenous Manufacturing at the Core

A significant feature of the ₹67,000 crore package is its deep commitment to the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative. All the approved systems—whether drones, radar systems, missile launchers, or combat vehicles—are being sourced from Indian firms, including Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), and emerging private players in the defence space. Most platforms have over 70% indigenous content, promoting domestic innovation and reducing reliance on imports.

Conclusion: A New Era of Indian Military Modernisation

The sweeping approvals announced by the DAC mark more than just high-value purchases—they represent a calibrated shift in India’s defence strategy, focusing on agility, technology, and indigenous production. By strengthening capabilities across the three armed forces, the government has signalled its preparedness to confront 21st-century security threats with 21st-century solutions. This modernisation wave, rooted in strategic foresight and national self-reliance, is set to redefine India’s defence landscape for years to come.

(Sources: Firstpost, Mint, News18)