India Approves ₹54,000 Crore Military Procurement for All Three Services, Enhancing Defense Capabilities
Defense Ministry: The Indian government has approved the procurement of military equipment to further strengthen its three armed forces—Army, Air Force, and Navy. According to the Ministry of Defence, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, approved eight capital acquisition proposals worth over ₹54,000 crore on March 20. This is a landmark step that will significantly enhance the capabilities of the Indian military forces.
Key Military Procurement
This approval includes the procurement of several crucial military assets. These include Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) systems for the Air Force, 1,350 HP engines for T-90 battle tanks, and Varunastra torpedoes for the Indian Navy. The AEW&C systems will significantly enhance the Air Force's combat capabilities, while the Varunastra torpedoes will bolster the Navy's anti-submarine warfare capabilities. Furthermore, the engine upgrade for T-90 tanks will improve their operational mobility.
New Guidelines for Faster and More Efficient Procurement
The Ministry of Defence has approved new guidelines to make the military procurement process faster, more effective, and efficient. Under these guidelines, timelines for various stages of military equipment acquisition will be reduced to expedite the supply process. This move is part of the Ministry of Defence's initiative to celebrate 2025 as a year of reform, representing a significant step towards improving the defense sector.
Upgraded Engines for T-90 Tanks
Simultaneously, a decision has been made to upgrade the engines of the Indian Army's T-90 battle tanks. Currently equipped with 1,000 HP engines, these will be replaced with 1,350 HP engines. This upgrade will particularly improve battlefield mobility in high-altitude regions. This engine upgrade will enhance the tanks' power and capabilities, further strengthening India's military might.
Varunastra Torpedoes for the Indian Navy
The procurement of Varunastra torpedoes for the Indian Navy has also been approved. This is an indigenous anti-submarine torpedo developed by the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory. These torpedoes will be launched from naval ships and will provide the Indian Navy with a new capability in maritime warfare.
