India Approves ₹79,000 Crore Defence Boost: Strengthening the Army, Navy, and Air Force

In a decisive move to enhance India’s defence preparedness and self-reliance, the Government of India has approved capital acquisition proposals worth approximately ₹79,000 crore for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The approval was granted by the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) under the chairmanship of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on October 23, 2025.

This marks one of the largest rounds of defence procurement in recent years and underscores the government’s continued commitment to modernising the armed forces under the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative.

Big boost for Indian Armed Forces (@adgpi-X) | Livemint

Reinforcing the Indian Army

The Indian Army is set to receive significant upgrades to bolster its combat and logistical strength. Among the major approvals is the Nag Missile System (Tracked) Mk-II (NAMIS), a state-of-the-art anti-tank guided missile designed to destroy enemy armoured vehicles and fortifications. Alongside this, the Army will acquire Ground-Based Mobile Electronic Intelligence Systems (GBMES) to enhance surveillance and real-time intelligence capabilities across varied terrains.

The Army’s mobility and operational readiness will also improve with the induction of High Mobility Vehicles (HMVs) equipped with Material Handling Cranes, crucial for transporting heavy equipment and supplies in forward areas. These procurements collectively aim to strengthen India’s land warfare capability and improve rapid deployment efficiency in sensitive regions such as the northern and western borders.

Expanding Naval Power and Maritime Dominance

The Indian Navy’s modernisation drive received a major push through the approval of several high-value assets. The DAC sanctioned the acquisition of Landing Platform Docks (LPDs) — large amphibious warfare vessels capable of carrying troops, tanks, and helicopters for amphibious operations. These ships will enhance India’s capacity for joint military operations, disaster relief, and humanitarian missions across the Indian Ocean region.

In addition, the Navy will procure the Advanced Lightweight Torpedo (ALWT), developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), to strengthen its anti-submarine warfare capabilities. The approval also includes the 30mm Naval Surface Gun, Electro-Optical/Infra-Red Search and Track systems, and smart ammunition for the 76mm Super Rapid Gun Mount, all of which are designed to enhance the Navy’s surface warfare and maritime security capabilities.

These acquisitions will help the Navy maintain maritime dominance and improve its readiness in countering both conventional and asymmetric threats across the Indian Ocean, particularly amid growing regional security challenges.

Empowering the Indian Air Force

For the Indian Air Force (IAF), the DAC approved the Collaborative Long-Range Target Saturation/Destruction System (CLRTS/DS) — an advanced autonomous system capable of executing long-range precision missions with minimal human intervention. The system can independently take off, navigate, identify targets, and deliver payloads, reflecting a significant leap in India’s unmanned aerial and drone warfare capabilities.

This development aligns with the IAF’s long-term vision to integrate artificial intelligence, automation, and precision-guided technologies into its operational framework. It also complements ongoing efforts to replace aging platforms with modern, multi-role aircraft and smart weapon systems to ensure strategic air superiority.

Advancing Self-Reliance in Defence Manufacturing

A major highlight of this procurement plan is its emphasis on indigenous production. Most of the approved projects will be manufactured under the “Make in India” framework, promoting domestic industries and reducing dependency on foreign suppliers. According to the Ministry of Defence, India’s domestic defence production has already touched ₹1.5 lakh crore, with private sector investment contributing over ₹33,000 crore.

The current approvals are expected to further strengthen the domestic defence ecosystem by encouraging collaboration between the armed forces, DRDO, and private manufacturers. The move is consistent with India’s strategic goal of transforming into a global hub for defence innovation, exports, and advanced military technology.

Strategic and Geopolitical Implications

This massive procurement comes at a crucial time when India faces increasing security challenges on multiple fronts — from the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China to the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan, and evolving threats in the Indian Ocean. By modernising its tri-services capabilities, India aims to maintain a robust deterrence posture and ensure rapid response to both conventional and hybrid threats.

International observers view this move as part of India’s broader strategy to balance regional power dynamics and assert its role as a responsible security provider in the Indo-Pacific. Enhanced maritime and aerial capabilities will also enable India to strengthen partnerships with allied nations and contribute more effectively to global peacekeeping and humanitarian operations.

The MGMM Outlook

India’s recent approval of ₹79,000 crore for defence acquisitions marks a significant stride toward strategic independence and technological advancement. By modernising the Army, Navy, and Air Force under the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission, the government reinforces its commitment to national security through indigenous innovation. The inclusion of systems like the Nag Missile Mk-II, Landing Platform Docks, and autonomous precision strike technologies showcases India’s focus on next-generation warfare and self-reliant production. This decisive move also boosts the domestic defence industry, empowering private and public collaboration while reducing dependency on imports.

From a national perspective, this initiative reflects India’s determination to secure its borders and assert its strength in an increasingly volatile geopolitical environment. The procurement drive is not merely about weapons—it’s about building resilience, strategic autonomy, and confidence in India’s capacity to defend its sovereignty. As India continues to face challenges from adversaries on multiple fronts, this defence upgrade reinforces its position as a regional stabilizer and a global force prepared to safeguard peace through strength and self-reliance.

(Sources: Livemint, Hindustan Times, NDTV)