The Ministry of Defence has sanctioned the acquisition of military equipment valued at Rs 84,560 crore to bolster the overall combat capabilities of the Armed Forces, as announced on Friday. The approved proposals, ratified by the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), encompass a spectrum of cutting-edge resources, including next-generation anti-tank mines, air defence tactical control radar, heavyweight torpedoes, and medium-range maritime reconnaissance and multi-mission maritime aircraft.
This decision marks a significant stride towards fortifying the nation’s security apparatus and enhancing its maritime surveillance capacities. Specifically, the procurement includes Medium Range Maritime Reconnaissance and Multi-Mission Maritime Aircraft to reinforce the surveillance and interdiction capabilities of both the Indian Navy and the Indian Coast Guard (ICG). The statement from the government specified the acquisition of the maritime surveillance variant of the C-295 aircraft, manufactured jointly in Spain and India by Airbus.
Moreover, the approval extends to acquiring a system capable of engaging distant and non-visible targets, along with a radar system aimed at bolstering air defence against slow, small, and low-flying threats. Additionally, advanced sonar technology for naval vessels has been greenlit to enable the early detection of submarines from extended distances, thereby preempting potential threats effectively.
The ministry highlighted that the procurement of the Canister Launched Anti-Armour Loiter Munition System, categorized under Buy (Indian-IDDM), aims at enhancing operational efficiency and dominance in the Tactical Battle Area by enabling engagement of targets beyond visual line of sight by mechanized forces. This comprehensive initiative underscores the government’s commitment to equipping the Armed Forces with state-of-the-art resources essential for safeguarding national security interests.
India
Key Points
- Strategic Significance: The procurement initiative is geared towards bolstering the combat capabilities of the Armed Forces, emphasizing national security.
- Diverse Equipment: The approved proposals encompass a wide array of cutting-edge military equipment, ranging from anti-tank mines to maritime reconnaissance aircraft.
- Maritime Surveillance: Special emphasis is placed on enhancing maritime surveillance capabilities, with the procurement of maritime reconnaissance aircraft and advanced sonar technology for naval vessels.
- Interagency Collaboration: The acquisition extends to both the Indian Navy and the Indian Coast Guard, reflecting a collaborative approach towards maritime security.
- Technological Advancements: The inclusion of systems for engaging distant targets and radar for enhanced air defence signifies a commitment to leveraging technological advancements in military operations.
- Operational Efficiency: The approval of the Canister Launched Anti-Armour Loiter Munition System underscores a focus on enhancing operational efficiency and dominance in the Tactical Battle Area.
- National Manufacturing: The procurement initiative also underscores efforts towards indigenous manufacturing, as evidenced by the joint production of maritime surveillance aircraft in Spain and India.
Summary
