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The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has given the green light to capital acquisition proposals worth Rs 84,560 crore to enhance the strength of the Armed Forces and Indian Coast Guard. The approval emphasizes the nation's commitment to self-reliance by prioritizing procurement from Indian vendors.

The DAC's approval, granted on Friday, includes a range of critical acquisitions aimed at bolstering various aspects of national defence. Among the key proposals given the nod are new-generation anti-tank mines, air defence tactical control radar, heavy-weight torpedoes, medium-range maritime reconnaissance and multi-mission maritime aircraft, flight refueler aircraft, and software-defined radios.

One of the focal points of the DAC's decision is the emphasis on 'Aatmanirbharta' or self-reliance, with a significant push towards procuring equipment from Indian vendors. This move aligns with the government's commitment to bolster indigenous defence capabilities and reduce dependency on foreign sources.

The DAC has approved the procurement of medium-range maritime reconnaissance and multi-mission maritime aircraft, a move aimed at strengthening the surveillance and interdiction capabilities of both the Indian Navy and the Indian Coast Guard. This decision underscores the government's commitment to safeguarding maritime borders and ensuring maritime security.

Additionally, the approval for air defence tactical control radar procurement aims to enhance the air defence systems, with a specific focus on detecting slow, small, and low-flying targets. This decision aligns with the evolving nature of security threats and the need for advanced technologies to counter them effectively.

The DAC has also given the green light for the procurement of a canister-launched anti-armour loiter munition system. This move is designed to enhance operational efficiency and domination in the tactical battle area, particularly for engaging targets beyond the visual line of sight by mechanized forces.

The approval for the Flight Refueler Aircraft acquisition is a strategic step to enhance the operational capabilities and reach of the Indian Air Force. This decision underscores the importance of extending the operational range, endurance, and flexibility of the Air Force, crucial for maintaining air superiority.

In a proactive move to foster a friendly defence start-up ecosystem, the DAC has approved amendments in the Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2020. These amendments focus on benchmarking and cost computation, payment schedules, and procurement quantity, and aim to create a supportive environment for start-ups and MSMEs under the Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) and Technology Development Fund (TDF) schemes.

The amendments are expected to provide much-needed incentives for start-ups and MSMEs, aligning with the 'Ease of Doing Business' initiative. The government's commitment to promoting the procurement of advanced technologies developed under iDEX and TDF schemes demonstrates a forward-looking approach towards integrating innovation into the defence sector.

The approval of these capital acquisition proposals reflects a comprehensive and strategic approach to strengthening India's defence capabilities across multiple domains. It also highlights the government's commitment to fostering self-reliance, innovation, and a supportive ecosystem for indigenous defence manufacturing.