NEW DELHI: The Defense Acquisition Council (DAC), led by Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, has approved proposals amounting to Rs. 7,800 crore, as announced by the ministry on Thursday. These proposals are aimed at bolstering the operational effectiveness of the Indian Armed Forces. The ministry emphasized that all acquisitions will be sourced exclusively from domestic suppliers.
With the objective of enhancing the capabilities of the Indian Air Force, the DAC has granted Approval of Necessity (AoN) for the procurement and installation of an Electronic Warfare (EW) Suite on Mi-17 V5 helicopters. This falls under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category and is expected to significantly enhance the helicopters' survivability. The Electronic Warfare Suite will be acquired from Bharat Electronics (BEL).
Additionally, the DAC has given the green light for the procurement of a ground-based autonomous system meant for mechanized infantry and armored regiments. This system will facilitate various operations such as unmanned surveillance, logistical delivery of essential supplies like ammunition and fuel, as well as casualty evacuation on the battlefield.
Furthermore, the DAC has approved proposals for the acquisition of a 7.62x51 mm Light Machine Gun (LMG) and a Bridge Laying Tank (BLT). The introduction of the LMG is poised to augment the combat capabilities of infantry forces, while the inclusion of the BLT will lead to swifter movement of mechanized units.
Under Project Shakti, the DAC has also granted AoN for the procurement of ruggedized laptops and tablets intended for the Indian Army. These acquisitions will be exclusively sourced from domestic vendors.
In order to enhance the operational proficiency of the Indian Navy's MH-60R helicopters, the DAC has given its approval for the procurement of weapons tailored for these helicopters.
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