Indian Defence Acquisition Council Approves ₹23 Lakh Crore for Armed Forces Modernization
The Defence Acquisition Council has approved a substantial ₹23 lakh crore for the modernization of the Indian Armed Forces. This includes key acquisitions for the Indian Air Force, such as the S-400 missile system and upgrades for Sukhoi aircraft. Additionally, the Indian Army and Coast Guard received approvals for various defense systems and vehicles aimed at enhancing operational capabilities. This marks a significant step in bolstering India's defense infrastructure, with the highest recorded approvals in a financial year. Read on to discover the details of these crucial defense initiatives.
Mar 27, 2026, 19:30 IST
Major Defence Proposals Approved by DAC
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has sanctioned proposals worth ₹23 lakh crore aimed at modernizing the Indian Armed Forces during a high-level meeting chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday. For the Indian Air Force (IAF), the DAC has approved the procurement of the S-400 long-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) system, refurbishment of Sukhoi Su-30 aircraft engine aggregates, and the inclusion of medium transport aircraft to replace the AN-32 and IL-76 transport fleet. This initiative is designed to meet the IAF's strategic, tactical, and operational airlift requirements. Sources indicate that the S-400 system will counter long-range aerial attacks from adversaries targeting critical areas, while remotely piloted strike aircraft will enhance offensive and coordinated air operations, along with providing covert intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities.
DAC Approvals for Indian Army and Coast Guard
DAC's Endorsements for the Indian Army and Coast Guard
For the Indian Army, the DAC has given the green light for the acquisition of air defense tracking systems, armored piercing tank ammunition, high-capacity radio relays, the Dhanush gun system, and runway-independent aerial surveillance systems. Additionally, for the Coast Guard, it has granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for heavy cushioned vehicles intended for multi-role coastal operations, including high-speed coastal patrols, reconnaissance, search and rescue missions, and logistical support for personnel and cargo transport. For the financial year (FY) 2025-26, the DAC has approved 55 proposals valued at ₹6.73 lakh crore. Furthermore, in the current fiscal year, capital procurement contracts worth ₹2.28 lakh crore for 503 proposals have been signed. The total amount of approvals and signed capital contracts so far is the highest recorded in any financial year.