Delhi: In a major push to sharpen the combat edge of the Indian Armed Forces, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh, cleared acquisition proposals worth approximately ₹67,000 crore on August 5, 2025. The approvals span all three services and focus on modernising surveillance, mobility, air defence, and long-endurance strike capabilities.
These proposals aim to strengthen India’s readiness across high-altitude borders, maritime zones, and contested airspaces through indigenous systems and strategic upgrades.
Night Combat Boost for Mechanised Infantry
For the Indian Army, the DAC granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for the procurement of Thermal Imager-based Driver Night Sights for BMP Infantry Combat Vehicles. These advanced sights will enable better night-time driving, significantly improving mobility, situational awareness, and operational manoeuvrability in hostile or low-visibility environments.
This upgrade is expected to enhance the combat efficiency of India’s Mechanised Infantry, particularly in high-threat zones where night operations are critical.
Indian Navy Gets ASW & Missile Defence Enhancements
The Indian Navy received AoN for three key proposals:
- Compact Autonomous Surface Craft
- BrahMos Fire Control System and Launchers
- Upgradation of the BARAK-1 Point Defence Missile System
The Compact Autonomous Surface Craft will augment India’s anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities by enabling detection, classification, and neutralisation of undersea threats without endangering manned platforms.
Upgrades to the BARAK-1 system and BrahMos launch infrastructure are expected to sharpen the Navy’s close-in missile defence and strike readiness, particularly in littoral and forward-operating zones.
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IAF to Deploy Mountain Radars, Modernised Air Defence
For the Indian Air Force, two major acquisitions received clearance:
- Procurement of Mountain Radars
- Upgradation of SAKSHAM/SPYDER Weapon System
The Mountain Radars will enhance India’s aerial surveillance along high-altitude border regions, ensuring early warning and airspace control over complex terrain. Simultaneously, upgrading the SAKSHAM/SPYDER systems for seamless integration with the Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS) will bolster India’s layered air defence grid.
Tri-Service Leap with Armed MALE RPAs
In a significant leap for networked warfare, the DAC approved procurement of Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPAs) for the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
These drones can operate over long ranges and carry multi-mission payloads, including weapons and surveillance systems. Their induction will boost 24×7 ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) and strike capability across service domains, especially in contested or denied environments.
Strategic Sustainment Approvals for Airborne Platforms
In addition to new inductions, the DAC also granted AoNs for:
- Sustenance of C-17 Globemaster and C-130J Super Hercules fleets
- Comprehensive Annual Maintenance Contract (AMC) for the S-400 Long-Range Air Defence Missile System
These platforms are key to India’s strategic lift, rapid deployment, and air defence capabilities. Their continued operational readiness is essential to ensure force projection and airspace security.
