The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) is preparing to approve significant military procurement initiatives aimed at enhancing India’s defence capabilities. Among the proposals under consideration are the acquisition of 60 Medium Transport Aircraft and an additional five units of the S-400 air defence systems. The DAC meeting is set for Friday, and it is also anticipated that the council will authorize the purchase of approximately four squadrons of indigenous Remotely Piloted Strike Aircraft, commonly known as unmanned combat jets, for the Indian Air Force.

BrahMos Missile Acquisition and Other Proposals

Defence establishment sources have stated that the Indian Army’s proposal to acquire a substantial number of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, which have a strike range of up to 800 kilometers, is also likely on the agenda for approval. The DAC is the highest procurement body within the Defence Ministry, making decisions on new weapon systems for the armed forces. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will chair the meeting, which will also feature key military leaders, including the Chief of Defence Staff, the heads of the three armed services, and the Defence Secretary.

S-400 Systems and Project Kusha Developments

The Defence Ministry plans to discuss the purchase of five additional S-400 Sudarshan air defence systems at a time when teams from the Indian Air Force are currently in Russia to receive the fourth squadron from a previous contract for five systems. Delivery of the fourth system is expected between April and May this year, while the fifth squadron is scheduled for arrival between November and December. In addition, the Indian Air Force has obtained clearance to procure five squadrons of indigenous long-range surface-to-air missile systems under Project Kusha, which is spearheaded by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

Medium Transport Aircraft Program Overview

As part of the Medium Transport Aircraft initiative, the Indian Air Force aims to acquire 60 new aircraft. Brazilian manufacturer Embraer, American firm Lockheed Martin, and Russian company Ilyushin are expected to be the main contenders in the bidding process. Concurrently, the Indian Army’s request to acquire 300 indigenous Dhanush howitzers is also on the agenda, with deliberations anticipated during the forthcoming DAC meeting.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share