Manish Shukla
In a significant move to boost the capabilities of the Indian Army and Coast Guard, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has cleared several capital acquisition proposals. The DAC, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, met on July 29, 2024, to consider various procurement proposals.
The council accorded Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for the procurement of an Advanced Land Navigation System (ALNS) for the Indian Army’s Armoured Fighting Vehicles (AFVs). The ALNS is a spoof-proof system with high levels of encryption and is compatible with Indian and global navigation satellite systems. This indigenous system will be procured from Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) in Chennai.
Additionally, the DAC cleared the procurement of 22 Interceptor Boats for the Indian Coast Guard. These state-of-the-art boats will be used for coastal surveillance, patrolling, search and rescue operations, and medical evacuation. They are capable of quick interception and shallow water operation in territorial waters, enhancing the Coast Guard’s capabilities.
These approvals demonstrate the government’s commitment to modernizing and strengthening the Indian Armed Forces, with a focus on indigenous development and procurement. The proposals cleared by the DAC will enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian Army and Coast Guard, contributing to national security and defence.