Defence Ministry Sanctions Rs 1.4 Lakh Crore for Modernisation of Army, Coast Guard

The Defence Ministry has approved Rs 1,44,716 crore for the acquisition of advanced combat vehicles and radars to modernize the Army's tank fleet and air defence. The majority of the capital will come from indigenous sources, enhancing the Indian Coast Guard's capabilities and honouring the late ICG DG Rakesh Pal.

The Defence Ministry on Tuesday gave the green light to procure future-ready combat vehicles (FRCVs) to modernize the Army's tank fleet and air defence fire control radars, among other initiatives.

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, cleared the proposals.

The ministry's statement revealed that the DAC awarded Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for 10 capital acquisition proposals valued at Rs 1,44,716 crore.

Notably, 99 per cent of the AoNs' expenditure will be sourced indigenously under the 'Buy (Indian)' and 'Buy (Indian-Indigenously Designed Developed and Manufactured)' categories, according to the statement.

'For the modernization of the tank fleet of the Indian Army, the procurement proposal for Future Ready Combat Vehicles (FRCVs) has been approved,' stated the ministry.

The FRCVs, designed to be advanced main battle tanks, will offer superior mobility, all-terrain capabilities, multi-layered protections, precision and lethal weaponry, and real-time situational awareness.

An AoN was also approved for acquiring air defence fire control radars to detect and track aerial targets and provide firing solutions.

'Additionally, approval was granted for the Forward Repair Team (Tracked), equipped with cross-country mobility for in-situ repairs during mechanised operations. This equipment, developed by Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited, is allotted for both mechanised Infantry Battalions and Armoured Regiments,' the statement added.

Three AoNs were accorded to boost the Indian Coast Guard's (ICG) capabilities. The acquisition of Dornier-228 aircraft, next-generation fast patrol vessels designed for high operational functionality in rough weather, and next-generation offshore patrol vessels with advanced technology and extended range operations will improve the ICG's surveillance, patrolling, search-and-rescue, and disaster-relief operations.

During the meeting, Defence Minister Singh paid tribute to the late ICG DG Rakesh Pal, a DAC member who recently passed away. Singh acknowledged Pal's significant contributions to the ICG's growth and conveyed condolences and support to Pal's family. A moment of silence was observed in Pal's honour.

(With inputs from agencies.)