NewKerala.com

India Greenlights Rs 2.38 Lakh Crore Defence Boost with S-400, New Aircraft

The Defence Acquisition Council has granted Acceptance of Necessity for critical defence proposals worth approximately Rs 2.38 lakh crore. Key approvals include the S-400 Long Range Surface-to-Air Missile System and Medium Transport Aircraft for the Air Force, alongside the Dhanush Gun System for the Army. The decisions aim to enhance air defence, strategic airlift, artillery reach, and extend the service life of Su-30 fighter jets. This marks a record year for defence procurement, with AoNs for Rs 6.73 lakh crore already accorded for the next financial year.

Key Points: India Approves S-400, Transport Aircraft in Major Defence Deal

  • S-400 missile system approved
  • New Medium Transport Aircraft fleet
  • Dhanush Gun System for Army
  • Su-30 MKI engine overhaul
  • Record Rs 6.73L cr proposals in FY26
3 min read

DAC clears proposals for procurement of S-400 Missile System, Medium Transport Aircraft, overhaul of Su-30 Aero engine

DAC clears proposals worth Rs 2.38 lakh crore for S-400 missile systems, Medium Transport Aircraft, Dhanush guns, and Su-30 engine overhauls.

"Both the quantum of AoN given and capital contracts signed, so far, have been the highest in any given financial year - Official Release"

New Delhi, March 27

In significant decisions to augument defence capabilities, Defence Acquisition Council on Thursday granted Acceptance of Necessity for various proposals worth an estimated cost of about Rs 2.38 lakh crore, granting approval for Dhanush Gun System for the Army and for procurement of Medium Transport Aircraft and S-400 Long Range Surface-to-Air Missile System for the Indian Air Force.

The DAC meeting was chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

An official release said that approval was accorded for the Air Defence Tracked System, Armoured Piercing Tank Ammunition, High Capacity Radio Relay, Dhanush Gun System and Runway Independent Aerial Surveillance System for the Indian Army.

It said that Air Defence Tracked System will provide real time Air Defence Control and Reporting capability, while the High Capacity Radio Relay will provide reliable and fail proof communication.

The Dhanush Gun System will enhance the artillery's capabilities to engage targets at longer ranges in all terrains with enhanced lethality and accuracy.

The Runway Independent Aerial Surveillance System will provide surveillance capabilities to the Army units, with the Armoured Piercing Tank Ammunition enhancing the lethality of Anti-Tank ammunition.

For the Indian Air Force, proposals were cleared for the procurement of Medium Transport Aircraft, S-400 Long Range Surface-to-Air Missile System, Remotely Piloted Strike Aircraft and overhaul of Su-30 Aero engine Aggregates.

The induction of Medium Transport Aircraft by replacing the transport fleet of AN32 and IL76 will meet the strategic, tactical and operational airlift requirements of the Services.

The S-400 system will counter enemy long-range air vectors targeting vital areas, while the Remotely Piloted Strike Aircraft will enable undertaking Offensive Counter and Coordinated Air Operations, also providing stealth Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance activities.

The overhaul of Su-30 aero engine and its aggregates will increase the service life of the aircraft and fulfil the operational requirement of the Air Force.

For the Indian Coast Guard, AoN was accorded for Heavy Duty Air Cushion Vehicles.

These vehicles will be used for multipurpose maritime coastal operational roles, including high-speed coastal patrolling, reconnaissance, search and rescue operations, rendering assistance to ships and carrying personnel and stores including logistics.

In the financial year 2025-26, AoN for 55 proposals amounting to Rs 6.73 lakh crore has been accorded by the DAC.

Capital procurement contracts have been signed for 503 proposals amounting to Rs 2.28 lakh crore in the current fiscal year. Both the quantum of AoN given and capital contracts signed, so far, have been the highest in any given financial year, the release said.

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
While strengthening defence is crucial, Rs 2.38 lakh crore is an astronomical figure. I hope there is complete transparency in these procurements and the funds are used with utmost efficiency. The focus should also remain on indigenous development in the long run.
A
Arjun K
Good to see the Dhanush gun system getting approval. It's a proud moment for DRDO and the Indian Army. Atmanirbhar Bharat in action! The medium transport aircraft upgrade is also very needed for our logistics.
P
Priya S
The overhaul of Su-30 engines is a smart move. Extending the life of existing platforms is as important as buying new ones. Saves money and maintains operational readiness. Kudos to the decision makers.
R
Rohit P
Our soldiers and airmen deserve the best equipment. These procurements, especially the air defence and surveillance systems, will give them a critical edge. Safety first! 🙏
K
Karthik V
The Coast Guard getting heavy-duty vehicles is excellent news. Maritime security is paramount for our economy. Hope the induction happens swiftly without the usual bureaucratic delays.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50