DAC Approves Rs. 21,772 Crore Defence Acquisitions to Boost Preparedness
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has approved five capital acquisition proposals worth over Rs. 21,772 crore to enhance India's defence capabilities. The approvals were granted during a meeting chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on December 3, 2024.
Key decisions include the procurement of 31 New Water Jet Fast Attack Crafts (NWJFACs) and 120 Fast Interceptor Crafts (FIC-1) for the Indian Navy. The NWJFACs are designed for operations such as maritime surveillance, patrols, search and rescue, and anti-piracy missions near coastal and island territories. The FIC-1 vessels will provide coastal defense and escort high-value naval assets, including aircraft carriers and submarines.
The DAC also approved the acquisition of an advanced Electronic Warfare Suite for Su-30 MKI fighter aircraft. This system includes external airborne self-protection jammer pods, next-generation radar warning receivers, and associated equipment. It aims to improve the aircraft's ability to operate in contested environments while evading enemy radar and weapon systems.
The Indian Coast Guard will procure six Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) for coastal surveillance and security operations. Additionally, approvals were granted for the overhaul of T-72 and T-90 tanks, BMP vehicles, and Sukhoi fighter aircraft engines to extend their operational life.
The acquisitions are intended to bolster India’s operational readiness across maritime, aerial, and land domains, addressing a range of security and defense needs.