Defence Ministry approves 10 capital acquisition proposals worth Rs 1.45 lakh crore

New Delhi: The Defence Ministry on Tuesday approved purchase of critical military hardware worth Rs 1.45 lakh crore including futuristic main battle tanks and advanced patrolling vessels for the Indian Coast Guard for better surveillance of territorial waters.

The Defence Acquisition Council chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh cleared the "Acceptance of Necessity” – the first stage in India’s defence acquisition process - for 10 proposals amounting to Rs 1,44,716 crore.

This includes a proposal to acquire Future Ready Combat Vehicles or futuristic main battle tanks with superior mobility, all-terrain ability, multi-layered protections, precision and lethal fires and real-time situational awareness.

Three approvals have been accorded to the India Coast Guard to buy Dornier-228 aircraft, next-generation fast patrol vessels with features to operate in rough weather conditions and next-generation offshore patrol vessels with advanced technology and enhanced long-range operations.

“These platforms will enhance the capability of the coast guards to carry out surveillance, patrolling of maritime zones, search-and-rescue and disaster-relief operations,” said a ministry official.

A permission has also been accorded for the procurement of air defence fire control radars, to detect and track aerial targets and provide firing solutions.

"A proposal has also been approved for Forward Repair Team (Tracked), which has suitable cross-country mobility for carrying out in-situ repair during mechanised operations. This equipment is designed and developed by Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited, and is authorised for both mechanised Infantry Battalion and Armoured Regiment," the statement said.