India’s Defence Modernisation Gains Momentum: DAC Clears ₹52,000 Crore Proposals with Strong Focus on Air Defence and Surveillance
- MGMMTeam
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
In a significant step towards enhancing national security, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has accorded Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for capital acquisition proposals valued at approximately ₹52,000 crore. These approvals encompass advanced weapon systems and platforms designed to bolster the operational capabilities of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, particularly in the domains of air defence, counter-drone warfare, and persistent surveillance.
The DAC, as the apex body for defence procurements, provides the essential in-principle administrative approval that paves the way for subsequent tendering and contract finalisation. This latest package underscores India’s ongoing commitment to modernising its armed forces through indigenous development and technology integration.
Emphasis on Layered Air Defence and Counter-Drone Capabilities
A major portion of the approvals targets the Indian Army, reflecting the growing importance of robust air defence and protection against unmanned aerial threats. The procurement of the Akash Tarang anti-drone electronic warfare system will offer dedicated protection to Army formations by detecting, tracking, and neutralising hostile UAVs through advanced jamming and disruption techniques.
Complementing this are man-portable anti-tank guided missiles (MPATGM), which will significantly enhance infantry units’ ability to engage enemy armoured and mechanised formations effectively. Medium-range surface-to-air missiles (MRSAM) will provide versatile defence against a variety of aerial threats, including aircraft, helicopters, and drones, at medium ranges. The induction of these systems is expected to promote greater inter-service synergy and streamline logistics.
Further strengthening short-range defences, the Very Short-Range Air Defence Systems (V-SHORADS) incorporate multi-spectral sensing for improved resilience against electronic countermeasures. Active Protection Systems (APS) for tanks will intercept incoming anti-tank threats, thereby increasing the survivability of armoured assets. Additionally, jet-based kamikaze drone systems will deliver cost-effective precision strike options with enhanced lethality and electronic warfare capabilities.
Naval Procurements for Enhanced Maritime Security
The Indian Navy will receive critical capabilities through the approval of multi-influence ground mines, which will help deny manoeuvrability to potential adversaries in strategic waters. Naval shipborne unmanned aerial systems, equipped with sophisticated sensors, will improve situational awareness and maritime domain awareness.
A key enabler for future indigenous warship programmes is the establishment of a Land-Based Testing Facility (LBTF) for electric propulsion systems. This facility will replicate onboard ship power, propulsion, and combat systems, allowing for comprehensive testing and validation while reducing reliance on foreign infrastructure. These measures collectively support the Navy’s efforts to maintain technological superiority at sea.
High-Altitude Surveillance Boost for the Air Force
For the Indian Air Force, the DAC has approved the acquisition of Fixed-Wing High Altitude Pseudo-Satellite (FW-HAPS) platforms. Operating in the stratosphere at altitudes of around 20 kilometres, these solar-powered systems can remain airborne for extended periods—weeks or even months—delivering persistent intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), secure communications, and high-resolution remote sensing.
HAPS platforms serve as a flexible and cost-effective complement to traditional satellites, capable of on-demand deployment and recovery. India’s ongoing indigenous development efforts in this area, involving institutions like the National Aerospace Laboratories and private sector partners, position the country well to harness this emerging technology for enhanced operational awareness.
Strategic Significance and Path Forward
This comprehensive procurement package highlights India’s proactive approach to addressing contemporary security challenges, including the proliferation of drones and the need for integrated, layered defence architectures. By prioritising indigenous systems, the approvals not only modernise the armed forces but also contribute to the growth of the domestic defence industry and technological self-reliance.
As India continues to navigate a complex geopolitical landscape, such investments in advanced capabilities will play a vital role in safeguarding national interests and maintaining peace and stability in the region.
The MGMM Outlook
India’s approval of nearly ₹52,000 crore in defence acquisitions reflects the growing urgency of preparing for modern warfare, where drones, electronic warfare, precision strikes, and persistent surveillance have become as critical as conventional military strength. The emphasis on layered air defence, counter-drone systems, advanced missiles, and high-altitude surveillance demonstrates a strategic shift towards building a technology-driven force capable of responding swiftly to emerging threats across land, sea, and air. Strengthening these capabilities enhances deterrence while improving the operational readiness of all three services.
The strong focus on indigenous development also reinforces the broader vision of self-reliance in defence manufacturing. Investments in locally developed platforms, testing infrastructure, and next-generation surveillance technologies reduce dependence on foreign suppliers while encouraging innovation within India's defence ecosystem. Such measures not only strengthen national security but also contribute to long-term technological advancement, industrial growth, and strategic autonomy in an increasingly uncertain global security environment.
(Sources: Business Standard, OpIndia)
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