September Surge: India's Strategic Defence and Space Initiatives

In September 2024, India launched significant defence and space initiatives, including approving Rs 145 billion in acquisitions and Rs 227.5 billion for space missions. Notable deals include stealth frigates, jet engines, and unmanned underwater vehicles, highlighting India's expanding global defence footprint and domestic advancements in aerospace technology.

September 2024 was a month of substantial defence procurement and development initiatives for India, reinforcing its military prowess and strategic global standing. The Defence Acquisition Council sanctioned 10 capital acquisition proposals worth Rs 145 billion, spotlighting India's defence ambitions.

Among major acquisitions, the Indian Army is set to receive Future-Ready Combat Vehicles to enhance mobility and firepower. Seven Project 17B stealth frigates will soon join the Navy, strengthening its maritime capabilities at a cost of Rs 700 billion.

The Indian Air Force will benefit from the Cabinet Committee on Security's approval of a contract with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for 240 AL-31FP jet engines for Sukhoi Su-30MKI jets, aimed at maintaining operational readiness.

In space exploration, a Rs 227.5 billion budget was approved for India's ambitious missions, including Chandrayaan-4 and a Venus exploration mission, alongside plans for an Indian space station.

Naval advancements included Cochin Shipyard's launch of two anti-submarine warfare watercraft, with the Ministry of Defence approving the creation of extra-large unmanned underwater vehicles for the Navy, with a Rs 25 billion budget.

Strategic collaborations saw Bharat Electronics Limited and Israel Aerospace Industries launch a joint venture for Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile systems, while India signed a submarine rescue agreement with the South African Navy.

Private sector momentum was marked by PTC Industries securing a deal with Israel Aerospace Industries, and Dassault Aviation planning an MRO facility for fighter jets near Noida.

India's domestic manufacturing surged as the country climbed to third in the Asia Power Index. The defence sector celebrated a landmark export order and the Indian Army's order of 700 Trinetra drones, emphasizing indigenous technology advancement.

(With inputs from agencies.)