India’s Defence Acquisition Council Approves Major Procurement Packages
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) of India has authorized capital acquisition proposals amounting to INR 2.12 trillion (approximately US$22.5 billion) aimed at enhancing the capabilities of the armed forces. The items included range from self-propelled artillery to helicopters, unmanned systems, naval assets, and advanced weather radars.
The approvals were finalized during a DAC meeting on October 26, 2026, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. According to the Ministry of Defence, a remarkable 82% of the acquisitions are set to be sourced from domestic industries.
Proposals for the Indian Army
Among the key proposals for the Indian Army are high-mobility trucks, tracked self-propelled howitzers, gunshot detection systems, light multirole helicopters, and very short-range air defence systems (VSHORADS). The agenda also includes platform-based counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS), long-range unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and innovative integrated surveillance and strike systems.
The VSHORADS initiative targets the mitigation of threats posed by modern, small aerial targets, while the C-UAS solutions aim to enhance the survivability of tanks in combat scenarios.
A significant highlight is the addition of 335 K9 Vajra-T 155mm L/52 self-propelled howitzers to bolster mechanized formations with enhanced mobility and firepower. Previously, in May 2017, Larsen & Toubro and Hanwha entered contracts for an initial batch of 100 K9 Vajra-Ts, followed by a repeat order for another 100 units in December 2024.
Acquisition Plans for the Air Force
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to advance its acquisition of light multirole helicopters, which aligns with its ongoing requirements for reconnaissance and surveillance capabilities. A total of approximately 400 helicopters will be procured, with plans to utilize both foreign models assembled in India and the domestically developed Light Utility Helicopter from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
Additionally, the IAF has secured approval for the procurement of special utility helicopters designated for VVIP missions. At present, the air force makes use of Mi-17 helicopters for such specialized roles. A previous acquisition process, which involved a contract for twelve AW101 VVIP helicopters, was annulled between 2013 and 2014.
To further bolster its operational capabilities, the IAF has also received approval for mobile, X-band, Doppler weather radars aimed at delivering high-resolution localized weather tracking in forward areas.
Navy’s New Acquisitions
The Indian Navy has also been granted procurement approval for active off-board decoy systems designed to defend against contemporary anti-ship missile threats.
By Atul Chandra
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