New Delhi: The Defence Ministry has approved military procurement proposals worth ₹2.12 lakh crore to strengthen India’s defence forces. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) cleared the proposals on October 26, 2026, with approximately 82% of the approved procurement value planned to come from Indian industry.
The approvals cover the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force. They include helicopters, artillery equipment, air defence systems, surveillance platforms and advanced drone technologies.
The decisions aim to improve military readiness, strengthen domestic defence manufacturing and support India’s efforts to reduce dependence on foreign defence equipment.
Details of Defence Procurement 2026
The Indian Army has received approval for several major military equipment proposals. These include High Mobility Vehicles (HMVs), Self-Propelled Tracked Gun Systems, Light Multi Role Helicopters (LMRH) and Very Short-Range Air Defence Systems (VSHORADS).
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The proposals also cover counter-drone systems, surveillance drones, an Integrated Surveillance and Strike System and a Long Range Kamikaze Drone System.
High Mobility Vehicles To Improve Army Operations
The High Mobility Vehicles will improve the Army’s movement, operational capabilities and logistics support. They will be especially useful in difficult terrains where moving troops and military equipment can be challenging.
The Self-Propelled Tracked Gun System will provide better mobility and firepower to mechanised formations. It will help military units move and operate their artillery systems more effectively.
New Systems To Strengthen Battlefield Surveillance
The Gun Shot Response System (GSRS) will provide real-time information about friendly forces. This will help improve battlefield awareness and support operational decisions.
The approved Light Multi Role Helicopters will support reconnaissance, surveillance, combat operations, search and rescue missions and humanitarian assistance.
The Very Short-Range Air Defence System will help the Army deal with small aerial threats. Meanwhile, platform-based counter-drone systems will improve the protection of tanks against unmanned aerial threats.
The approved surveillance and drone systems will also strengthen the Army’s ability to monitor activities and identify targets.
Long-Range Kamikaze Drones Included In Procurement
The Army’s proposals include long-range unmanned aerial systems and a Long Range Kamikaze Drone System.
These systems are expected to support surveillance and strike operations. Their inclusion reflects the growing importance of unmanned technologies in modern military operations. However, the final procurement, deployment and delivery of these systems will depend on the next stages of the acquisition process.
Defence Procurement: Navy Gets Active Offboard Decoy System And Naval Platforms
The Defence Acquisition Council has approved the procurement of an Active Offboard Decoy System (AODS) for the Indian Navy. The system is designed to strengthen the Navy’s protection against modern anti-ship missiles. It will improve the effectiveness of naval anti-missile defence capabilities.
The council has also approved other major naval platforms. These platforms will be designed and constructed in India and are expected to improve the Navy’s combat capabilities. The approvals aim to support the Navy’s modernisation and strengthen its ability to deal with changing maritime security challenges.
Air Force Gets Helicopters, Air Defence Systems And Weather Radars
The Indian Air Force has received approval for helicopters, air defence systems, weapons and a Mobile X-Band Doppler Weather Radar System. The proposed acquisitions aim to improve the Air Force’s air defence capabilities, operational readiness and warfighting strength.
Special Utility Helicopters To Support Air Transport
The proposed Special Utility Helicopters will help the Indian Air Force meet its important air transport requirements. Helicopters can support military operations in different locations and help transport personnel and equipment when required. The approved helicopter procurement is part of the broader effort to strengthen the Air Force’s operational capabilities.
Mobile Weather Radars To Improve Forward Area Monitoring
The Mobile X-Band Doppler Weather Radar System will provide high-resolution and localised weather information in forward areas.
Accurate weather monitoring is important for military operations. It can help forces understand changing weather conditions and support operational planning. The proposed radar system will strengthen the Air Force’s weather surveillance capabilities in important operational areas.
82% Defence Procurement To Come From Indian Industry
One of the most important parts of the Defence Acquisition Council’s approval is the focus on domestic defence manufacturing. Approximately 82% of the approved procurement value will come from Indian industry.
The decision supports India’s efforts to increase domestic defence production and reduce dependence on imported military equipment.
It also creates potential opportunities for Indian manufacturers working in helicopters, artillery, defence electronics, radar systems, drones, surveillance equipment and naval platforms. However, the approval does not guarantee orders for any particular company. Businesses will have to meet the required specifications and participate in the procurement process.
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FAQs
Approximately 82% of the approved defence procurement value will be sourced from Indian industry, supporting domestic manufacturing and defence self-reliance.
The Defence Acquisition Council has approved capital acquisition proposals worth approximately ₹2.12 lakh crore for the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force on October 26, 2026.
The approvals cover high-mobility vehicles, artillery systems, helicopters, air defence systems, counter-drone equipment, surveillance drones, naval platforms, weapons and weather radars.
