DAC Greenlights Major Defence Acquisitions Worth Rs 52,000 Crore
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, approved acquisition proposals totaling approximately Rs 52,000 crore for the Indian armed forces on 3 July 2026. The approvals aim to enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force through indigenous and advanced technologies.
Key Approvals for the Indian Air Force
One of the significant approvals for the Indian Air Force (IAF) includes the procurement of Fixed-Wing Based High Altitude Pseudo Satellite (FW-HAPS) systems. These platforms can operate at high altitudes for extended durations, providing persistent surveillance and communication capabilities. The DAC also cleared other proposals to bolster the IAF's aerial combat and reconnaissance assets.
Proposals for the Indian Army and Navy
The Indian Army's share includes modernisation of artillery, air defence systems, and infantry equipment, focusing on indigenisation under the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative. The Indian Navy will receive upgrades for its maritime surveillance and anti-submarine warfare capabilities, with an emphasis on locally manufactured systems.
Emphasis on Indigenous Manufacturing
The DAC reiterated its commitment to promoting domestic defence manufacturing. According to an official statement, "The council has prioritised the procurement of equipment from Indian vendors to reduce dependency on foreign imports and boost the domestic defence industry." This aligns with the government's target of achieving a defence export turnover of Rs 35,000 crore by 2025-26.
Impact on Defence Preparedness
The approvals are expected to significantly enhance the tri-services' combat readiness, especially in high-altitude and maritime domains. The integration of FW-HAPS will provide the IAF with a strategic edge in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations along the northern borders. The DAC's decision marks a step towards modernising the armed forces amid evolving regional security challenges.
