In a significant boost to India’s defence preparedness, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has approved 10 capital acquisition proposals worth Rs 1.45 lakh crore. The proposals, cleared on September 3, 2024, focus on modernizing the Indian Army’s tank fleet, enhancing air defence capabilities, and upgrading the Indian Coast Guard’s surveillance and patrol capabilities.
Notably, 99% of the total cost of the approved proposals will be sourced indigenously under the Buy (Indian) and Buy (Indian-Indigenously Designed Developed and Manufactured) categories. This move aligns with the government’s push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
The approved proposals include procurement of Future Ready Combat Vehicles (FRCVs) for the Indian Army, which will be a futuristic Main Battle Tank with advanced features. Additionally, Air Defence Fire Control Radars will be procured to detect and track aerial targets. The Forward Repair Team (Tracked) equipment will be acquired for mechanized operations.
The Indian Coast Guard will receive Dornier-228 aircraft, Next Generation Fast Patrol Vessels, and Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels to enhance its capabilities.
The DAC meeting also paid tribute to late Indian Coast Guard DG Rakesh Pal, who passed away on August 18, 2024. Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh highlighted DG Rakesh Pal’s contributions to the growth and expansion of the ICG and offered condolences to the bereaved family. The DAC members observed a moment of silence in his memory.