The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), led by Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh, approved 10 significant capital acquisition proposals on September 03, 2024. These proposals, primarily focused on indigenous development, will significantly modernize India’s defence capabilities, including the procurement of Future Ready Combat Vehicles (FRCVs) and advanced assets for the Indian Coast Guard.
On September 03, 2024, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh, took a decisive step towards strengthening India’s defense capabilities by approving Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for 10 critical capital acquisition proposals. Valued at ₹1,44,716 crore, a remarkable 99% of these acquisitions will be sourced from indigenous suppliers under the Buy (Indian) and Buy (Indian-Indigenously Designed Developed and Manufactured) categories, reinforcing India’s commitment to self-reliance in defense.
The DAC’s approval includes the modernization of the Indian Army’s tank fleet through the procurement of Future Ready Combat Vehicles (FRCVs). These futuristic Main Battle Tanks (MBTs) will offer superior mobility, all-terrain capability, multilayered protection, precision and lethal firepower, and real-time situational awareness. This move is pivotal for maintaining the operational superiority of the Indian Army in varied combat scenarios.
Additionally, the DAC sanctioned the procurement of Air Defence Fire Control Radars, which will enhance the Indian Army’s ability to detect, track, and neutralize aerial threats with precision. The approval for Forward Repair Team (Tracked) units, designed and developed by Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited, will ensure rapid in-situ repairs during mechanized operations. These units, with cross-country mobility, are authorized for both mechanized Infantry Battalions and Armoured Regiments, thereby bolstering the army’s operational readiness.
In a bid to strengthen maritime security, three AoNs were granted to enhance the capabilities of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG). The acquisition of Dornier-228 aircraft, Next Generation Fast Patrol Vessels, and Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels will significantly improve the ICG’s ability to conduct surveillance, patrolling, search and rescue, and disaster relief operations, even in challenging weather conditions.
The meeting concluded on a poignant note as Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh paid tribute to the late Director General of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), Rakesh Pal, who passed away on August 18, 2024, in Chennai. Acknowledging his invaluable contributions to the growth and expansion of the ICG, Rajnath Singh offered condolences and unwavering support to the bereaved family. In a solemn gesture, DAC members observed a moment of silence, honoring the legacy of DG Rakesh Pal.
