India Approves ₹2.38 Lakh Crore Defense Proposals to Boost Military Strength

38 lakh crore. The Defense Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, accorded the Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for these proposals during a high-level meeting. According to officials, the majority of these procurements will be sourced from domestic industries, aligning with the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative to promote self-reliance in defense manufacturing and reduce dependence on imports.

Strengthening Army Capabilities with Advanced Weaponry

The DAC has approved several critical systems for the Indian Army to modernize its combat and defensive infrastructure. This includes the procurement of Air Defense Tracked Systems, designed to provide mobile and effective protection against aerial threats. Also, the council cleared proposals for anti-tank ammunition, which will Notably enhance the Army's capability to neutralize enemy armored formations, while to ensure secure and strong communication in the battlefield, High Capacity Radio Relay systems have been approved, facilitating easy data and voice transmission across various terrains.

Expansion of Artillery and Surveillance Systems

A major highlight of the approval is the inclusion of the Dhanush Gun System. The Dhanush is an indigenous 155mm artillery gun capable of delivering high-precision long-range fire. The council also approved runway-based surveillance systems to provide real-time intelligence and monitoring along the borders. These systems are expected to provide the Indian Army with a strategic edge by improving situational awareness and response times in critical sectors. The emphasis remains on integrating technology that can operate effectively in diverse climatic conditions.

Air Force Modernization: Transport Aircraft and S-400 Support

For the Indian Air Force (IAF), the DAC has approved the acquisition of Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA). These aircraft are intended to replace the aging fleet of AN-32 and IL-76 transport planes, thereby enhancing the IAF's tactical and strategic airlift capabilities. Plus, the council cleared proposals for the S-400 missile system's support and the procurement of Remote Piloted Strike Aircraft. These unmanned platforms will be utilized for both surveillance and precision strikes. The approval also includes the overhaul of engines for Su-30 MKI fighter jets, ensuring the continued airworthiness and operational efficiency of the frontline fleet.

Coast Guard Expansion and Maritime Security

To strengthen maritime security and coastal surveillance, the DAC approved the procurement of heavy Air Cushion Vehicles, commonly known as Hovercrafts, for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG). These versatile vehicles are capable of operating at high speeds over water, marshes, and beaches, making them ideal for rapid patrolling and search and rescue (SAR) operations. According to defense officials, the addition of these hovercrafts will Importantly improve the ICG's ability to monitor the vast coastline and respond to maritime emergencies or security breaches effectively.

Fiscal Year Procurement Data and Strategic Impact

The current fiscal year 2025-26 has seen an unprecedented scale of defense procurement approvals. 73 lakh crore in this fiscal year. 28 lakh crore have been signed this year, marking the highest-ever figure for defense contracts in a single year. These approvals reflect the government's commitment to modernizing the armed forces while fostering a solid domestic defense industrial base, ensuring that the military remains prepared for evolving global security challenges.

Chaired the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) meeting today in which Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) was accorded to various proposals worth an estimated cost of about Rs 2.38 lakh crore. The decisions taken in the DAC will help in further strengthening India’s defence…

— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) March 27, 2026