The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) is expected to review and potentially approve several major defence procurement proposals during its meeting scheduled for Friday, in a move aimed at strengthening India’s military capabilities.
The high-level meeting will be chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and attended by top officials including the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), the three service chiefs, and the Defence Secretary.
S-400 Air Defence Systems Under Consideration
One of the key proposals expected to come up for discussion is the procurement of five additional S-400 ‘Sudarshan’ air defence systems.
India had earlier signed a deal with Russia for five S-400 squadrons, which are currently being delivered in phases. According to defence sources:
- The fourth S-400 squadron is expected between April and May
- The fifth unit is scheduled for delivery between November and December
Indian Air Force teams are already in Russia to oversee the induction process of the upcoming systems.
Proposal for Unmanned Combat Aircraft
The Indian Air Force (IAF) may also receive approval to acquire around four squadrons of indigenous Remotely Piloted Strike Aircraft, commonly referred to as unmanned combat jets.
These systems are expected to enhance India’s capabilities in precision strikes, surveillance, and long-range operations without risking pilot safety.
BrahMos Missile Procurement for Army
The Indian Army’s proposal to acquire a large number of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles is also expected to be reviewed.
The latest versions of the BrahMos missile have a strike range of up to 800 kilometres, significantly boosting the Army’s ability to conduct long-range precision strikes.
Indigenous Dhanush Howitzers
Another major proposal includes the procurement of 300 indigenous Dhanush artillery guns, developed as an upgraded version of the Bofors system.
The induction of these howitzers is expected to strengthen long-range artillery capabilities and support the government’s push for defence indigenisation.
Medium Transport Aircraft Programme
The DAC is also likely to examine the Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) programme, under which the Indian Air Force plans to procure around 60 aircraft.
Several global aerospace manufacturers are expected to compete for the project, including:
- Embraer (Brazil)
- Lockheed Martin (United States)
- Ilyushin (Russia)
These aircraft would help modernise India’s military logistics and troop mobility capabilities.
Project Kusha Already Approved
Meanwhile, approval has already been granted for five squadrons of indigenous long-range surface-to-air missile systems under Project Kusha, which is being developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
DAC’s Role in Defence Preparedness
The Defence Acquisition Council, the top procurement body of the Defence Ministry, plays a crucial role in clearing major defence acquisitions and strengthening India’s military preparedness.
If approved, the proposals under consideration are expected to significantly enhance India’s air defence, strike capability, artillery strength, and transport capacity, while also supporting the government’s emphasis on indigenous defence manufacturing.
