In a significant move to modernize the armed forces, the Indian defense ministry approved procurement proposals for the army, navy, and air force on Thursday, totaling ₹79,000 crore. In order to strengthen India’s fighting capabilities, the clearances include the purchase of cutting-edge weapon systems such Nag missiles, amphibious warfare ships, and electronic intelligence and surveillance equipment.
According to a statement from the ministry, the bids were approved at a Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) meeting that was presided over by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. According to news agency PTI, this is the second significant procurement approval after Operation Sindoor against Pakistan. Projects totaling ₹67,000 crore had previously been approved in August.
With approvals for Landing Platform Docks (LPDs), 30-mm Naval Surface Guns (NSGs), Advanced Lightweight Torpedoes (ALWTs), Electro Optical Infra-Red Search and Track Systems, and Smart Ammunition for its 76-mm Super Rapid Gun Mounts, the Indian Navy will see a major increase in its maritime and amphibious capabilities.
According to the ministry, the Navy, Army, and Air Force will be able to conduct joint operations more effectively if they purchase LPDs, which are massive amphibious assault ships that can transport troops, tanks, and helicopters. At least four of these ships are anticipated to be purchased by the Navy. The government stated that the Indian Navy will be able to carry out peacekeeping missions, humanitarian aid, disaster relief, and other tasks with the assistance of LPD’s integrated sea capacity.
“The induction of ALWT, which is indigenously developed by Naval Science and Technological Laboratory, DRDO, is capable of targeting conventional, nuclear, and midget submarines,” the statement continued, referring to indigenous systems. By acquiring 30-mm NSGs, the Coast Guard and Navy will be even better equipped to carry out anti-piracy and low-intensity maritime operations. The DAC authorized the purchase of High-Mobility Vehicles (HMVs), Ground-Based Mobile ELINT Systems (GBMES), and Nag Missile System (Tracked) Mk-II (NAMIS) for the Indian Army.
The ministry claims that although the GBMES will offer 24/7 electronic intelligence on enemy activity, the NAMIS purchase will improve the Army’s ability to destroy the enemy’s battle vehicles, bunkers, and other field fortifications. Additionally, the deployment of HMVs will improve ground forces’ mobility and supply efficiency by bolstering logistical support across a variety of terrains.
The Collaborative Long Range Target Saturation/Destruction System (CLRTS/DS) and a number of other projects for the Indian Air Force were approved by the DAC. When it comes to autonomous takeoff, landing, navigation, payload detection, and delivery in the mission area, the CLRTS/DS “has the capability,” according to the ministry. It is anticipated that the system will greatly improve the IAF’s mission flexibility and long-range precision targeting.
