Modi govt clears Rs 67,000 crore defence push: Drones, night vision and supersonic edge for armed forces

For the Indian Army, the DAC granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for the procurement of Thermal Imager-based Driver Night Sights for BMP vehicles

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on August 5, 2025, cleared a series of capital acquisition proposals totaling approximately Rs 67,000 crore to strengthen the operational readiness of the Indian Armed Forces.

For the Indian Army, the DAC granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for the procurement of Thermal Imager-based Driver Night Sights for BMP vehicles. This will significantly improve night-time mobility and enhance operational efficiency of Mechanised Infantry units.

In a boost to the Indian Navy, AoNs were approved for the procurement of Compact Autonomous Surface Craft, BrahMos Fire Control Systems and Launchers, and the upgradation of the BARAK-1 Point Defence Missile System. The Compact Autonomous Surface Craft will enhance the Navy’s capabilities in detecting, classifying, and neutralising threats during anti-submarine warfare operations.

The Indian Air Force received approval for the procurement of Mountain Radars and upgradation of the SAKSHAM/SPYDER Weapon System. Mountain Radars will strengthen surveillance along mountainous borders, while the upgraded SAKSHAM/SPYDER system—integrated with the Integrated Air Command and Control System—will augment the nation’s air defence framework.

The DAC also gave the green light for the procurement of Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPAs) for the Army, Navy, and Air Force. These drones, capable of carrying diverse payloads and weaponry, will provide extended-range surveillance and combat capabilities, enabling continuous operational readiness.

Additionally, AoNs were accorded for the sustenance of the C-17 and C-130J aircraft fleets, along with a comprehensive annual maintenance contract for the S-400 Long Range Air Defence Missile System, ensuring high availability and efficiency of these critical assets.