India has taken another major step towards strengthening its defence capabilities. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has approved capital acquisition proposals worth nearly ₹52,000 crore to equip the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force with advanced military systems.
The approvals, announced on 3 July 2026, are aimed at improving the operational readiness of the armed forces while giving a strong push to indigenous defence technology. From anti-drone systems and next-generation missiles to naval drones and high-altitude surveillance platforms, the latest acquisitions are expected to significantly enhance India's ability to deal with modern battlefield challenges.
Key Highlights
|
Particular |
Details |
|
Decision Taken By |
Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) |
|
Chaired By |
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh |
|
Total Value |
Approximately ₹52,000 Crore |
|
Date of Approval |
3 July 2026 |
|
Purpose |
Strengthen the combat readiness of the Army, Navy, and Air Force |
|
Major Focus |
Indigenous defence systems, surveillance, air defence, anti-drone capability, and modern warfare |
What is the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC)?
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) is the country's highest decision-making body for defence procurements. It is responsible for approving major military purchases required by India's armed forces.
This time, the Council granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for several acquisition proposals. An AoN is the government's in-principle approval that allows the procurement process to move forward.
Major Boost for the Indian Army
The Indian Army is set to receive several advanced systems designed to improve its firepower, protection and battlefield awareness.
AKASH TARANG Anti-UAV Electronic Warfare System
One of the biggest approvals is for the AKASH TARANG Anti-Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Electronic Warfare System.
With drones becoming a major threat in modern warfare, this system will help Army formations detect, jam, and neutralise hostile drones before they can cause damage.
Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM)
The DAC has also approved the procurement of the MPATGM, an indigenous anti-tank missile system.
This lightweight missile will strengthen the infantry's ability to destroy enemy tanks and other armoured vehicles, especially in difficult combat situations.
Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM)
To strengthen air defence, the Army will receive the Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM) system.
It is capable of intercepting a wide range of aerial threats, including aircraft, helicopters and other stand-off targets, providing an additional layer of protection to Indian forces.
Very Short Range Air Defence System (V-SHORADS)
Another important approval is for the V-SHORADS.
Equipped with multi-spectral sensing technology, this air defence system is designed to counter low-flying aerial threats while remaining effective even against enemy countermeasures.
Active Protection System for Tanks
Modern battlefields demand better protection for armoured vehicles.
The approved Active Protection System (APS) will improve the survivability of Indian Army tanks by detecting and intercepting incoming anti-tank weapons before impact.
Jet-Based Kamikaze Drone System
The Army will also receive Jet-Based Kamikaze Drone Systems, which represent a significant leap in electronic warfare and precision strike capability.
These drones can engage high-value enemy targets while offering greater operational flexibility and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional systems.
Indian Navy to Strengthen Maritime Capabilities
The Indian Navy is also set to benefit from several important acquisitions focused on maritime security and future naval technologies.
Multi-Influence Ground Mine (MIGM)
The Navy will procure Multi-Influence Ground Mines (MIGM), which are designed to restrict enemy naval movement and strengthen maritime denial capabilities.
Naval Shipborne Unmanned Aerial System (NSUAS)
The approved Naval Shipborne Unmanned Aerial System (NSUAS) will significantly improve surveillance at sea.
Equipped with advanced sensors, these drones will enhance situational awareness, helping naval commanders monitor large maritime areas more effectively.
Land-Based Testing Facility (LBTF)
The DAC has also approved the establishment of a Land-Based Testing Facility (LBTF) for electric propulsion systems.
This facility will support the testing and development of motors and propulsion technologies that are expected to power future naval platforms.
Indian Air Force to Get High-Altitude Surveillance Platforms
For the Indian Air Force, the DAC approved the procurement of Fixed-Wing High-Altitude Pseudo-Satellites (FW-HAPS).
These advanced platforms can remain in the air for extended durations and perform multiple critical missions, including:
- Persistent Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR)
- Telecommunications support
- Remote sensing
- Long-duration aerial monitoring
The induction of FW-HAPS is expected to significantly enhance the Air Force's ability to monitor sensitive areas and maintain continuous surveillance without relying solely on satellites.
Why This Approval Matters
Modern warfare is evolving rapidly, with drones, electronic warfare, precision-guided weapons and advanced surveillance becoming increasingly important.
The latest DAC approvals reflect India's focus on preparing its armed forces for these emerging challenges. The acquisitions will improve:
- Anti-drone defence capabilities
- Air defence preparedness
- Infantry firepower
- Tank survivability
- Maritime security
- Long-endurance surveillance
- Electronic warfare capabilities
Another notable aspect is the emphasis on indigenous defence technologies, supporting India's goal of becoming more self-reliant in defence manufacturing while reducing dependence on imports.
Final Thoughts
The Defence Acquisition Council's approval of defence procurement proposals worth ₹52,000 crore marks another significant milestone in India's military modernisation programme.
From advanced anti-drone systems and indigenous anti-tank missiles to naval unmanned systems and high-altitude surveillance platforms, these acquisitions are expected to enhance the operational capabilities of all three services.
As these projects move from approval to induction, they will not only strengthen India's defence preparedness but also reinforce the country's growing focus on building a modern, technology-driven and self-reliant military.
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