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In a major step towards crucial acquisition, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for capital acquisition proposals worth ₹79,000 crore for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force
In a major step toward accelerating India's defence modernisation, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for capital acquisition proposals worth ₹79,000 crore for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The approvals are focused on enhancing indigenous defence capabilities through advanced weapon systems, platforms, and support equipment aimed at strengthening the operational readiness of the Tri-Services.
For the Indian Army, the DAC has cleared the procurement of the Nag Missile System (Tracked) Mk-II (NAMIS) — an advanced anti-tank guided missile platform designed to engage enemy armour and fortifications at long ranges. The system will significantly improve the Army's ability to neutralise bunkers, vehicles, and field defences.
Additionally, the Army will acquire the Ground-Based Mobile ELINT System (GBMES), which will bolster electronic intelligence capabilities for real-time battlefield surveillance and situational awareness. The GBMES add much strength to existing capacity in the area of intelligence.
To further improve logistics and mobility, approvals have also been granted for High Mobility Vehicles (HMVs) equipped with material-handling cranes, enhancing support and deployment efficiency across varied terrains.
The approvals are focused on enhancing indigenous defence capabilities through advanced weapon systems
For the Indian Navy, the DAC approved multiple key projects, including the acquisition of Landing Platform Docks (LPDs) — large amphibious warfare ships that will significantly enhance India's expeditionary and disaster relief capabilities.
The Navy will also induct 30mm Naval Surface Guns (NSG), Advanced Lightweight Torpedoes (ALWTs), and Electro-Optical Infra-Red Search and Track (EO-IRST) Systems to strengthen maritime surveillance and anti-submarine warfare.
Developed indigenously by the Naval Science & Technological Laboratory (DRDO), the ALWTs are capable of targeting conventional, nuclear, and midget submarines. The 30mm NSG will add operational firepower for low-intensity maritime and anti-piracy missions.
All acquisitions will be undertaken under the Buy (Indian–Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured) category
In addition, the approval for Smart Ammunition for 76mm Super Rapid Gun Mounts will enhance the Navy's precision strike capabilities against surface and aerial threats. The NSG play a crucial role in anti-piracy operations and low-intensity maritime conflict at the regional level.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) will benefit from the approval of the Collaborative Long Range Target Saturation/Destruction System (CLRTS/DS) and associated systems. Featuring autonomous take-off, landing, navigation, and target engagement capabilities, the CLRTS/DS will strengthen the IAF's long-range precision strike and saturation attack capabilities.
This acquisition marks a key advancement in integrating autonomous technologies into India's aerial warfare systems, improving both deterrence and operational effectiveness.
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) highlighted that all acquisitions will be undertaken under the Buy (Indian–Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured) category, reaffirming the government's commitment to the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' (self-reliance) initiative.
These projects are expected to significantly boost domestic defence production, promote innovation, generate employment, and spur technological development across India's industrial ecosystem.
Manish Kumar Jha is a Consulting & Contributing Editor for SP's Aviation, SP's Land Forces and SP's Naval Forces and a security expert. He writes on national security, military technology, strategic affairs & policies.
