### Major Defence Procurement Boost: India Approves ₹79,000 Crore for Armed Forces Modernisation India's Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has taken a significant step towards enhancing the capabilities of its armed forces by approving procurement proposals worth ₹79,000 crore (approximately $8.8 billion). This decision, made on December 30, 2025, is aimed at modernising the military and improving combat readiness across the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The approved acquisitions include advanced weaponry, surveillance systems, and upgrades to existing military hardware, reflecting India's commitment to strengthening its defence infrastructure in response to evolving security challenges [https://ibcworldnews.com/2025/12/30/dac-clears-₹79000-crore-defence-procurement-proposals]. ### Breakdown of the Defence Procurement Proposals 1. **Key Acquisitions**: - Loitering munitions for artillery regiments. - Low-level lightweight radars and long-range guided rocket ammunition for the Pinaka rocket system. - Integrated drone detection and interdiction systems for the Indian Army [https://newsarenaindia.com/defence-and-security/mod-clears-procurement-of-military-hardware-worth-79-000-cr/66082]. 2. **Platform Upgrades**: - Overhaul of T-90 tanks and mid-life upgrades for Mi-17 helicopters. - Acquisition of medium-range surface-to-air missiles (MRSAM) for the Navy and Air Force [https://www.cnbctv18.com/economy/dac-defence-acquisition-council-meeting-rs-80000-crore-defence-procurement-proposals-rajnath-singh-ws-el-19805665.htm]. 3. **Focus on Indigenisation**: - The procurement strategy emphasizes domestic production and indigenisation, aiming to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers and enhance self-reliance in defence manufacturing [https://www.cnbctv18.com/business/defence-acquisition-council-capex-approval-indigenisation-order-pipeline-experts-19807292.htm]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Financial Overview**: - Total approved amount: **₹79,000 crore** (approximately **$8.8 billion**). - Key systems included: missiles, drones, radars, and ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) systems [https://www.cnbctv18.com/india/india-approves-proposals-worth-nearly-8-8-billion-to-enhance-capabilities-of-armed-forces-ws-l-19806576.htm]. - **Strategic Importance**: - The approvals are seen as a response to modern warfare challenges, including drone warfare and the need for advanced surveillance capabilities [https://www.businesstoday.in/india/story/explained-why-dacs-rs79000-crore-defence-approvals-matter-for-indias-military-readiness-508513-2025-12-29.htm]. ### Conclusion: Strengthening India's Defence Capabilities The DAC's approval of ₹79,000 crore in defence procurement is a pivotal move towards modernising India's military forces. This initiative is expected to: 1. **Enhance Combat Readiness**: By acquiring advanced weapon systems and upgrading existing platforms, the armed forces will be better equipped to address contemporary security threats. 2. **Promote Indigenisation**: The focus on domestic production will not only bolster the defence sector but also contribute to economic growth through job creation and technological advancements. 3. **Ensure Strategic Autonomy**: By reducing dependence on foreign military supplies, India aims to achieve greater self-reliance in its defence capabilities [https://www.jharkhandmirror.net/dac-₹79000-crore-defence-buys-india]. In summary, the recent DAC approvals mark a significant milestone in India's defence strategy, aligning military capabilities with national security objectives and regional stability [https://www.thedailyguardian.com/india/centre-clears-79000-crore-defence-purchases-for-missiles-drones-surveillance-systems-to-boost-army-navy-air-force-689315].