The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh, convened on July 29, 2024, to evaluate and approve various capital acquisition proposals. Key approvals included the procurement of the Advanced Land Navigation System (ALNS) for the Indian Army’s Armoured Fighting Vehicles (AFVs) and 22 Interceptor Boats for the Indian Coast Guard.
In a significant move to bolster India’s defense capabilities, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), under the leadership of Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh, met on July 29, 2024. The council deliberated on several crucial capital acquisition proposals aimed at enhancing the operational efficiency of the Indian Army and the Indian Coast Guard. Among the noteworthy approvals were the procurement of the Advanced Land Navigation System (ALNS) for Armoured Fighting Vehicles (AFVs) and 22 Interceptor Boats for the Indian Coast Guard.
DAC Approvals for Indian Army and Coast Guard
Advanced Land Navigation System (ALNS) for Armoured Fighting Vehicles (AFVs)
The DAC accorded Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for the procurement of the Advanced Land Navigation System (ALNS) for the Indian Army’s Armoured Fighting Vehicles (AFVs). This sophisticated navigation system is designed to be spoof-proof, featuring high levels of encryption to ensure secure and accurate navigation.
The ALNS Mk-II is compatible with multiple navigation systems, including the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS), NAVigation using Indian Constellation (NavIC), Global Positioning System (GPS), and Global Navigation Satellite System (GLONASS). This multi-system compatibility ensures exceptional navigational accuracy for AFVs. Furthermore, the ALNS Mk-II’s integration with Defence Series Maps provides unparalleled precision in navigational applications.
The ALNS Mk-II will be procured from Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) in Chennai, under the Buy [Indian-Indigenously Designed Developed and Manufactured (IDDM)] category. This procurement underscores India’s commitment to promoting indigenous defense manufacturing and self-reliance in critical defense technologies.
Procurement of Interceptor Boats for Indian Coast Guard
To enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian Coast Guard, the DAC approved the procurement of 22 Interceptor Boats equipped with the latest state-of-the-art systems. These boats are designed for rapid interception and shallow water operations, making them ideal for coastal surveillance, patrolling, search and rescue missions, and medical evacuations.
The new Interceptor Boats will significantly augment the Indian Coast Guard’s ability to secure India’s coastal waters, ensuring robust maritime security. Their advanced features and quick response capabilities will play a crucial role in safeguarding territorial waters and conducting efficient search and rescue operations.
The DAC’s recent approvals mark a significant step forward in strengthening India’s defense infrastructure. The procurement of the ALNS Mk-II for the Indian Army’s AFVs and the acquisition of 22 Interceptor Boats for the Indian Coast Guard reflect the government’s commitment to enhancing national security through advanced technology and indigenous manufacturing. These strategic acquisitions will not only improve the operational readiness of the Indian armed forces but also contribute to the nation’s long-term defense capabilities.
By prioritizing modern, indigenously developed systems, India continues to advance its defense posture, ensuring the safety and security of its borders and coastal regions. The DAC’s decisions underscore the importance of technological superiority and self-reliance in maintaining a robust defense framework.
