New Delhi: The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has given the green light to capital acquisition proposals that surpass Rs 54,000 crore, a strategic move intended to enhance the country’s defence capabilities. In addition to this significant financial commitment, the council has rolled out new guidelines aimed at streamlining the capital acquisition process, which will help reduce the timeframes involved in securing necessary equipment and technology.
Under the Chairmanship of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, the DAC has issued Acceptance of Necessity (AoNs) for eight major capital acquisition projects. Among these, the Indian Army will benefit from the approval to acquire a 1350 HP Engine, which will replace the current 1000 HP Engine in T-90 Tanks. This upgrade is expected to significantly enhance the tanks’ mobility on the battlefield, especially in challenging high-altitude environments, by improving their power-to-weight ratio.
In a move to bolster the Indian Navy’s capabilities, the Defence Acquisition Council has also authorized the procurement of Varunastra Torpedoes, an indigenous anti-submarine weapon designed for ship launch by the Naval Science & Technological Laboratory. The integration of these advanced torpedoes will greatly enhance the Navy’s capacity to address submarine threats posed by potential adversaries.
Furthermore, the Defence Acquisition Council has approved the acquisition of Airborne Early Warning & Control (AEW&C) Aircraft Systems for the Indian Air Force. These systems are vital for improving operational effectiveness, as they can significantly alter the landscape of warfare and enhance the performance of other military assets.
As part of a broader initiative to designate 2025 as the ‘Year of Reforms’ within the Ministry of Defence, the Defence Acquisition Council has introduced guidelines that aim to accelerate various phases of the Capital Acquisition Process, thereby making it more efficient and effective in meeting the defence needs of the nation.
– global bihari bureau
