New Delhi, Sept 8:
The Defence Acquisition Council, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has accorded policy approval for defence procurements worth ₹1.10 lakh crore for the three armed forces, with a major focus on modernising combat aircraft and strengthening operational capabilities.
The approved acquisitions include Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH), CBRN reconnaissance vehicles, high-mobility vehicles, automated mine-laying systems, armoured recovery vehicles, the Sarvatra bridging system and other equipment for the Army. The CBRN vehicles will be equipped to detect, identify, monitor and mark areas contaminated by chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear agents.
The procurement package is also aimed at improving logistics and mobility, particularly in challenging terrain. The ALHs are expected to support the Army and Indian Air Force in carrying out complex missions across different terrains and operational environments.
A key feature of the approvals is the emphasis on domestic procurement and reducing dependence on imports. The Defence Ministry said nearly 98 per cent of the total procurement under the approvals would be sourced from Indian industry, giving further impetus to the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
Rajnath Singh said the high level of procurement from Indian industry reflected the government’s commitment to building a strong domestic defence industrial base.