In a significant move to enhance the combat capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), under the chairmanship of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, approved eight capital acquisition proposals worth over ₹54,000 crore on March 20, 2025. This major decision is set to strengthen the firepower, mobility, and surveillance capabilities of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Boosting Battlefield Mobility for the Army
To enhance the Indian Army’s operational effectiveness, the DAC gave the green light for the procurement of 1350 HP engines to upgrade the current 1000 HP engines of the T-90 tanks. This upgrade will significantly improve the tanks’ battlefield mobility, especially in high-altitude areas, by increasing the power-to-weight ratio. With this enhancement, the T-90s will be better equipped to navigate challenging terrains, offering greater agility and firepower.
Strengthening Naval Capabilities
For the Indian Navy, the DAC approved the procurement of additional Varunastra torpedoes, an indigenously developed ship-launched anti-submarine weapon. Designed by the Naval Science & Technological Laboratory, these torpedoes are a key component of India’s underwater warfare arsenal. The addition of more Varunastra torpedoes will significantly enhance the Navy’s ability to counter adversarial submarine threats, boosting its maritime defence capabilities.
Advanced Surveillance for the IAF
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to gain a major capability boost with the approval of Airborne Early Warning & Control (AEW&C) aircraft systems. These state-of-the-art systems act as force multipliers by providing real-time intelligence and surveillance, dramatically improving situational awareness and coordination. The integration of AEW&C systems will enhance the IAF’s ability to detect and respond to aerial threats, making it a game-changer in modern warfare scenarios.
Accelerating Defence Acquisitions
As part of the ‘Year of Reforms’ in the Ministry of Defence, the DAC also approved new guidelines aimed at reducing the timelines in the capital acquisition process. This reform will streamline and expedite the procurement of defence equipment, making the process faster, more efficient, and effective.
Strengthening India’s Defence Readiness
The DAC’s ₹54,000 crore approval marks a significant step in strengthening India’s defence preparedness. The modernization of T-90 tanks, the induction of advanced torpedoes, and the addition of AEW&C systems will not only enhance the operational capabilities of the armed forces but also reinforce India’s commitment to self-reliance in defence production under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
