Defence ministry approves Rs21,772-cr equipment acquisition for armed forces

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), headed by Defence minister Rajnath Singh, on Tuesday (3 December 2024), approved five equipment acquisition proposals valued over Rs21,772 crore.

The procurement list includes Water Jet Fast Attack Crafts, Fast Interceptor Craft, Electronic Warfare Suite (EWS), Next Generation Radar Warning Receiver and Advanced Light Helicopters for coastal surveillance.

DAC granted approval under Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for acquisition of 31 New Water Jet Fast Attack Crafts (NWJFACs) for the Indian Navy. These are meant for low intensity maritime operations, surveillance, patrol, and search and rescue (SAR) operations along the coast. These vessels will also be useful in anti-piracy missions, especially in and around our Island territories. 

DAC also accorded AoN for procurement of 120 Fast Interceptor Craft (FIC-1), which can be used for escorting high value units such as aircraft carriers, destroyers, frigates and submarines as also for coastal defence.

The Electronic Warfare Suite (EWS) being procured under AoN comprises External Airborne Self Protection Jammer pods, Next Generation Radar Warning Receiver and associated equipment for Su-30 MKI Aircraft.

Incorporation of this system will enhance the operational capabilities of SU-30 MKI and protect it from enemy radars and weapon system while carrying out a mission against protected enemy targets.

AoN has also been accorded for procurement of six Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) M for Indian Coast Guard to strengthen coastal surveillance. Besides, the DAC accorded approval for the overhaul of T-72 and T-90 tanks, infentry combat vehicle BMP and engines of Sukhoi fighter aircraft which will enhance the service life of these assets.