The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) on Friday, 27 March, granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for defence procurement proposals worth approximately ₹2.38 lakh crore, marking a significant step in strengthening India’s military capabilities across the Army, Air Force and Coast Guard, the Defence Ministry said in a statement.
Chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, the DAC cleared a wide range of systems aimed at enhancing operational readiness, firepower, surveillance and communication capabilities of the armed forces.
For the Indian Army, approvals include the Air Defence Tracked System, Armoured Piercing Tank Ammunition, High Capacity Radio Relay, Dhanush Gun System and Runway Independent Aerial Surveillance System.
These systems are expected to strengthen air defence control, improve battlefield communication reliability, and enhance long-range artillery engagement with greater accuracy and lethality.
The Air Defence Tracked System will provide real-time air defence control and reporting capabilities, while the High Capacity Radio Relay will ensure robust and fail-safe communication networks.
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The Dhanush Gun System is designed to improve artillery effectiveness across terrains, and the aerial surveillance system will expand reconnaissance capabilities for Army units.
For the Indian Air Force, the DAC cleared proposals for Medium Transport Aircraft, the S-400 long-range surface-to-air missile system, Remotely Piloted Strike Aircraft, and overhaul of Su-30 aero engine aggregates.
The Medium Transport Aircraft will replace ageing AN-32 and IL-76 fleets, addressing strategic and tactical airlift requirements.
The S-400 system will strengthen air defence against long-range aerial threats targeting critical assets, while the Remotely Piloted Strike Aircraft will enable offensive operations and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions with stealth capabilities.
The overhaul of Su-30 engines will extend aircraft service life and sustain operational readiness.
For the Indian Coast Guard, approval was granted for Heavy Duty Air Cushion Vehicles, which will be deployed for high-speed coastal patrolling, search and rescue, reconnaissance, and logistical support operations.
The ministry noted that during the financial year 2025-26, AoN has been accorded for 55 proposals amounting to ₹6.73 lakh crore.
Capital procurement contracts worth ₹2.28 lakh crore have also been signed for 503 proposals in the current fiscal, marking the highest-ever levels in a single year.
