India approves extra $7.6 billion defense spend
New Delhi has approved defense purchases worth about $7.6 billion in an attempt to upgrade the operational capabilities of its armed forces, India’s defence ministry said in a statement on Tuesday.
The Defense Acquisition Council (DAC), led by Defense Minister Rajnath Singh has greenlighted the acquisition of more BrahMos missiles and armed drones, in addition to clearing modernization proposals put forward by the armed forces.
The council approved long-term maintenance and support plans for existing critical systems, including the air force's Boeing aircraft, and a comprehensive annual maintenance contract for the S-400 air defense missile system.
Along with BrahMos missiles, the Indian Navy will also get an upgrade to the existing Barak-1 missile system, the ministry said.
The DAC has also approved the upgrades of the air force’s Saksham/Spyder weapon systems, enabling their integration with the Integrated Air Command and Control System, which aims to enhance the overall air defense network, according to the ministry.
Other approvals include thermal imaging and night vision devices for the army’s BMP infantry fighting vehicles, Compact Autonomous Surface Craft for the navy and advanced mountain radars for the air force.
”The procurement of Compact Autonomous Surface Craft will provide the capability to the Indian Navy for detection, classification and neutralization of threats in anti-submarine warfare missions,” the ministry said.
The statement also noted that the armed forces will get medium altitude long endurance remotely-piloted aircraft, which are capable of carrying multiple payloads. “They will significantly enhance round-the-clock surveillance and combat capability of the armed forces.”
Last month New Delhi approved arms and ammunition purchases worth $12 billion, with a focus on sourcing from domestic industries.
India, which is one of the world’s top defense importers, has historically relied on Russia for equipment as well as technology. Moscow is an active partner in New Delhi’s weapons indigenisation plans, with a number of Russian defense equipment being manufactured under licensing agreements in India.
