India Approves ₹67,000 Crore Defence Boost: Night-Vision Tech, BrahMos, Mountain Radars, MALE Drones Cleared

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): In a significant push to modernize and strengthen its armed forces, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has approved proposals worth approximately ₹67,000 crore for procurement of critical defence equipment and weapon systems across the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

For the Army, the procurement includes thermal imager-based driver night sights to enhance the night-operational capability of BMP vehicles, providing greater mobility to mechanised infantry in combat zones.

The Indian Navy will be equipped with BrahMos fire control systems and launchers, along with upgrades to the Barak-1 point defence missile system. In addition, compact autonomous surface crafts will bolster anti-submarine warfare (ASW) by enhancing detection, classification, and neutralization capabilities.

For the Air Force, the DAC approved the purchase of mountain radars aimed at boosting air surveillance in border areas, especially in difficult terrains. These will enhance situational awareness and strengthen air defence along the China border in Eastern Ladakh, where the Spyder weapon system will also undergo critical upgrades. This will be integrated into India’s Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS).

The council also cleared the acquisition of Medium Altitude Long Endurance Remotely Piloted Aircraft (MALE-RPA), enabling 24/7 surveillance and long-range strike capabilities — a major force multiplier in modern warfare.

Furthermore, maintenance contracts for the C-17 and C-130J transport aircraft fleets, as well as for the S-400 long-range air defence missile system, were also approved, ensuring combat readiness and operational sustainability. India defence deal 2025, DAC defence approval, ₹67000 crore defence purchase, Indian Army night vision, BrahMos missile system, Barak-1 upgrade, Indian Navy anti-submarine craftThese major procurements reflect India’s growing focus on indigenization, surveillance enhancement, and futuristic warfare preparedness, in response to evolving geopolitical threats.