For the Indian Army, the approvals include the procurement of loiter munition systems, commonly known as suicide drones, capable of precision strikes on enemy positions. Upgrades to the Pinaka rocket system will enhance range and accuracy, allowing the Army to target high-value objectives at longer distances. The Army will also acquire low-level lightweight radars to detect and track unmanned aerial systems (UAS) operating at low altitudes, along with an upgraded Mark-II anti-drone system to neutralize enemy drones in border areas. Additionally, Nag anti-tank missiles will be procured for targeting bunkers and armored vehicles.
For the Indian Navy, the DAC sanctioned the acquisition of Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) for surveillance operations in the Indian Ocean Region. The Navy will also receive Bollard Pull tugs for maneuvering large ships at ports, High Frequency Software Defined Radios (HF SDR) for long-range communication during boarding and landing operations, and High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) radio systems for extended maritime surveillance.
The Indian Air Force will benefit from an Automatic Take-Off and Landing Recording System, which will automatically log aircraft and drone operations to improve flight safety. Other approvals include the Astra Mark-II air-to-air missile with extended range, SPICE-1000 precision-guided bombs, and a pilot simulator for the Tejas fighter jet, enabling safer and cost-effective training.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized that these procurements reflect India’s commitment to modernizing its armed forces while maintaining operational readiness against evolving threats. The acquisitions will bolster India’s counter-drone capabilities, precision strike options, and overall situational awareness across land, sea, and air domains.
The DAC’s approval aligns with India’s broader defence strategy, including enhanced indigenous manufacturing and strategic deterrence against regional security challenges. Experts noted that these acquisitions, particularly suicide drones and advanced missile systems, significantly enhance the military’s ability to respond swiftly to asymmetric threats along borders.
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