Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Mar 20: The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has greenlit eight major defence proposals worth over ?54,000 crore. These include upgrades for the Army’s T-90 tanks, advanced anti-submarine torpedoes for the Navy, and cutting-edge Airborne Early Warning & Control (AEW&C) systems for the Air Force.

One of the key approvals is for a more powerful 1,350 HP engine to replace the existing 1,000 HP engine in T-90 tanks. This upgrade will significantly improve battlefield mobility, particularly in high-altitude operations.

For the Indian Navy, the DAC has sanctioned the procurement of indigenous Varunastra torpedoes. Developed by the Naval Science & Technological Laboratory, these ship-launched anti-submarine weapons will bolster the Navy’s ability to counter underwater threats.

Additionally, the Council has approved the purchase of AEW&C Aircraft Systems for the Indian Air Force. These systems will enhance aerial surveillance and combat capabilities, providing a strategic edge in modern warfare.

As part of the Ministry of Defence’s “Year of Reforms 2025” initiative, the DAC has also endorsed new guidelines to expedite the Capital Acquisition Process, ensuring faster and more efficient defence procurement.

The approvals align with the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliance) vision. Rajnath Singh expressed confidence that defence production, which hit a record ?1.27 lakh crore in 2023-24, will exceed ?1.60 lakh crore by 2025-26, while defence exports are expected to surpass ?30,000 crore.

On the same day, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, also approved the acquisition of the indigenous Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) worth nearly ?7,000 crore, marking a significant step toward India’s self-sufficiency in defence manufacturing.