NEW DELHI — December 29, 2025
Major Push to Military Modernization
In a significant strategic move to strengthen India’s combat readiness, the Defense Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, has approved defense procurement proposals worth approximately ₹79,000 crore. The approvals grant Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for a wide range of advanced weapon systems and platforms across the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
The decision reflects the government’s focus on future warfare needs, including drone technology, precision strike capability, enhanced surveillance, and secure communications.
Indian Army: Focus on Drones, Precision Firepower
The Army will receive a major technological upgrade aimed at countering emerging battlefield threats and improving strike accuracy.
Key Approvals for the Army
Loiter Munition Systems: Designed for precise, high-impact strikes on tactical targets, enhancing battlefield lethality.
Low-Level Lightweight Radars: Capable of detecting and tracking low-flying and small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), strengthening airspace security.
Pinaka MLRS Long-Range Guided Rockets: Advanced ammunition for the Pinaka Multiple Launch Rocket System, enabling long-range precision attacks on high-value targets.
Integrated Drone Detection & Interdiction System Mk-II: To protect critical military installations from hostile drone threats.
Indian Navy: Maritime Awareness and Secure Communication
To bolster maritime security and operational flexibility, the DAC approved several key proposals for the Navy.
Naval Capabilities Approved
Bollard Pull (BP) Tugs: To assist ships and submarines in maneuvering and berthing operations at ports and confined waters.
HF Software Defined Radio (SDR) Manpack: Ensures secure long-range communication during boarding and amphibious operations.
HALE RPAS (Leased): High-Altitude Long-Endurance Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems to enhance surveillance and intelligence gathering in the Indian Ocean Region.
Indian Air Force: Long-Range Strike and Training Enhancement
The Indian Air Force (IAF) will see a significant boost in air combat and training capabilities.
IAF Systems Approved
Astra Mk-II Air-to-Air Missile: Enhances beyond-visual-range engagement capability of fighter aircraft.
SPICE-1000 Guidance Kits: Strengthen long-range precision strike capability.
Full Mission Simulators for LCA Tejas: Improve pilot training efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness.
Automatic Take-Off and Landing Recording Systems: Enhance aerospace safety and all-weather operational monitoring.
Economic and Industrial Impact
All approved proposals align with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, emphasizing indigenous manufacturing. According to the Defense Ministry, the projects will generate substantial opportunities for Defense Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) and private-sector MSMEs, creating jobs and accelerating technological innovation in India’s defense ecosystem.
Strategic Significance
The ₹79,000 crore investment is expected to address current capability gaps while preparing India for future, technology-driven conflicts. The emphasis on indigenous systems such as Pinaka and Astra highlights India’s growing self-reliance and rising profile as a defense manufacturing and export hub.
