In 2023, India witnessed significant strides in bolstering its national defense capabilities through decisive decision-making and landmark acquisitions, with the Ministry of Defence (MoD) approving acquisitions totaling $49 billion. These acquisitions, sanctioned by the Defence Acquisition Council under the leadership of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, were aimed at enhancing the operational readiness of the Indian Armed Forces across land, air, and sea.
Land, Air, and Sea Acquisitions:
In November, the Defence Acquisition Council approved Capital Acquisition Proposals worth ₹2.23 lakh crore (over $29 billion). Notably, 98 percent of this allocation was earmarked for procurement from domestic industries. The acquisitions included assets such as Light Combat Helicopters (LCH), TEJAS MK-1A, and the upgrade of Su-30MKI aircraft. The Indian Navy’s surface platform was also given the green light for Medium-Range Anti-Ship Missiles. The MoD approved the replacement of the Indian Field Gun with another Towed Gun System.
Boosting Self-Reliance:
In a move towards self-reliance and Atmanirbharta, the Defence Acquisition Council approved the procurement of 26 Rafale Marine aircraft and associated equipment from the French Government. This deal, valued at approximately ₹50,000 crore (over $6 billion), underscores India’s commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities through international collaborations. Additionally, the acquisition of 31 High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) from the USA through the Foreign Military Sale (FMS) route, valued at around $3 billion, signifies the importance of fostering defense ties with Western nations.
Aatmanirbhar Bharat Focus:
The recent clearances by the Defence Acquisition Council highlight the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative, with a majority of the proposals falling under Buy Indian-IDDM (Indigenously Designed, Developed, and Manufactured). These include acquisitions of BrahMos missiles, Shakti EW systems, Utility Helicopters-Maritime, Dornier aircraft, improved Akash air defense systems, Offshore Patrol Vessels, and fleet support vessels. Contracts with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) worth ₹17,176 crore ( $2.3 billion) were also signed to enhance operational capabilities, covering systems like Medium Power Radars, Radar Warning Receivers, and Integrated Electronic Warfare Systems.
Building for the Future:
The Ministry of Defence further solidified its commitment to future readiness by sealing agreements for the procurement of 70 HTT-40 Basic Trainer Aircraft for the Indian Air Force and three Cadet Training Ships for the Indian Navy. These agreements aim to enhance training capabilities, infrastructure, and promote indigenous manufacturing, generating substantial employment opportunities.
Humanitarian Focus:
Some acquisitions, such as patrol vessels and support ships, were not solely military assets but also designed for humanitarian missions like Search & Rescue and Disaster Relief Operations. Additionally, the signing of the 300th contract under Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) marked a significant leap in indigenous design and development, incorporating advanced technologies like Gallium Nitride in future defense applications, including radars.