Defence ministry signs 5 capital acquisition deals of Rs 39,125.39 crore

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signed five major capital acquisition contracts worth Rs 39,125.39 crore on March 1, 2024, in New Delhi.

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signed five major capital acquisition contracts worth Rs 39,125.39 crore on March 1 in New Delhi as part of its Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

These contracts, inked in presence of Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh and Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane, mark a significant boost to the Make-in-India initiative and indigenous capabilities in defence.

A contract worth Rs 5,249.72 crore was signed with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the procurement of aero-engines for MiG-29 aircraft.

Two contracts were signed with Larsen & Toubro (L&T). The first, worth Rs 7,668.82 crore, is for the procurement of close-in weapon system (CIWS) to provide terminal air defence to select locations in the country. The second, worth Rs 5,700.13 crore, is for the procurement of high-power radar (HPR) to enhance terrestrial air defence capabilities of the IAF. Both projects will boost indigenous manufacturing and generate significant employment.

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\Two contracts were also signed with BrahMos Aerospace Private Limited (BAPL). The first, worth Rs 19,518.65 crore, is for the procurement of BrahMos missiles to meet combat outfit and training requirements of the Indian Navy. The second, worth Rs 988.07 crore, is for the procurement of Shipborne BrahMos system, the Indian Navy's primary weapon for maritime strike operations.

These contracts are expected to generate significant employment opportunities, boost indigenous capabilities, and reduce dependency on foreign-origin equipment. They represent a major step towards achieving self-reliance in defence manufacturing and technology.