MoD Signs ₹2,500 Crore Defence Contracts to Strengthen Indigenous Capabilities

Major Boost for Aatmanirbhar Bharat in Defence Sector

India has taken a significant step towards enhancing its defence preparedness. It also aims to promote domestic manufacturing. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signed contracts worth ₹2,500 crore. These contracts are for the procurement of the Nag Missile System (NAMIS) Tracked version. They also include 5,000 Light Vehicles for the Armed Forces. The agreements were finalized under the Buy (Indian-Indigenously Designed, Developed, and Manufactured) category. They were signed in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh. This took place in New Delhi on March 27, 2025.

NAMIS (Tr) Weapon System: Strengthening Anti-Tank Warfare

The contracts include a key component: the NAMIS (Tr) weapon system. It was developed by the Defence Research & Development Laboratory (DRDL) under Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The agreement, valued at ₹1,801.34 crore, was signed with Armoured Vehicle Nigam Limited.

NAMIS (Tr) is designed to counter enemy armour threats. It is an advanced fire-and-forget anti-tank guided missile system. This system is equipped with state-of-the-art sighting technology. It enhances precision lethality and provides the Mechanised Infantry with a cutting-edge advantage in modern warfare. This new system is expected to significantly bolster the Indian Army’s combat capabilities, making mechanised operations more effective.

5,000 Light Vehicles: Enhancing Mobility Across Challenging Terrains

Force Motors Ltd and Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd are participating in the procurement initiative. They will supply 5,000 Light Vehicles to the Indian Armed Forces. These high-performance vehicles, designed with advanced engine power and superior technology, can carry a payload of 800 kg.

Built for multi-terrain operations, these vehicles will improve troop mobility, logistical efficiency, and rapid deployment in various operational conditions. Their rugged design will enable them to navigate challenging landscapes, ensuring the Indian Army maintains high mobility and operational readiness.

Promoting Indigenous Defence Manufacturing & Job Creation

The signing of these contracts marks a significant milestone in India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. It reinforces the push towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing. These projects are expected to generate substantial employment opportunities. This will happen both directly and indirectly. They will involve Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the supply chain.

These procurements will strengthen India’s anti-tank warfare capabilities. They will also enhance military mobility. The Armed Forces will be modernised while reducing reliance on imports. This move underscores the government’s commitment to empowering the domestic defence industry. It also aims to position India as a global leader in indigenous military technology.