Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Feb 12: The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) on Thursday approved a series of major procurement proposals for the armed forces, paving the way for the acquisition of Rafale fighter jets, advanced combat missiles, anti-tank mines, additional P-8I maritime patrol aircraft, and other critical platforms.
Chaired by defence minister Rajnath Singh, the DAC cleared capital acquisition proposals worth Rs 3.6 lac crore, aimed at significantly strengthening the operational preparedness and combat capabilities of India’s armed forces.
Among the key approvals is the procurement of six additional P-8I long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft for the Indian Navy. The move is expected to substantially enhance India’s maritime surveillance, anti-submarine warfare, and maritime strike capabilities, reinforcing its strategic presence in the Indian Ocean Region.
The Ministry of Defence stated that the new P-8I aircraft will bolster the Navy’s ability to conduct long-range anti-submarine operations and maintain vigilant maritime domain awareness. The acquisition will be made from the United States, with terms having been agreed upon during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the US last year.
India currently operates 12 P-8I aircraft, acquired in two phases — eight in 2009 and four more in 2016. The addition of six more aircraft will further strengthen the Navy’s fleet at a time when maritime security remains critical. Nearly 70–80 per cent of global trade transits through the Indian maritime region, making it a strategic priority for national security.
The P-8I is capable of detecting and engaging submarines concealed deep underwater while operating at altitudes of up to 41,000 feet. It has a range of approximately 8,300 kilometres and features 11 hardpoints — five internal and six under the wings — enabling it to carry Harpoon anti-ship missiles, cruise missiles, lightweight torpedoes, anti-submarine warfare ordnance, and mines. The aircraft is also equipped with an advanced multi-mission surface search radar.
The latest DAC approvals underline the government’s continued push to modernise the armed forces and enhance India’s defence preparedness across air, land, and sea domains.