India's Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved totaling over ₹21,772 crore

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On December 3, 2024, India's Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved five capital acquisition proposals totaling over ₹21,772 crore to enhance the nation's defense capabilities.

Key Approvals:

31 New Water Jet Fast Attack Crafts (NWJFACs): These vessels are designed for low-intensity maritime operations, coastal surveillance, and search and rescue missions. They will bolster the Indian Navy's coastal defense and operational readiness.

Procurement of Dornier Aircraft: The Indian Coast Guard will acquire Dornier aircraft to enhance aerial surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, strengthening maritime security.

Upgrades to T-90 Tanks: The Indian Army's T-90 tanks will undergo upgrades to improve their combat effectiveness and operational lifespan, ensuring continued superiority in armored warfare.

Strategic Impact:

These acquisitions are part of India's ongoing efforts to modernize its armed forces and enhance indigenous defense production under the 'Make in India' initiative. The procurement of NWJFACs and upgraded T-90 tanks will significantly boost the operational capabilities of the Indian Navy and Army, respectively. Additionally, the induction of Dornier aircraft will augment the Coast Guard's surveillance capacity, contributing to comprehensive maritime security.

This approval follows previous significant defense procurements, including a ₹70,000 crore project for new warships and a ₹19,000 crore deal for over 200 BrahMos missiles for the Navy, underscoring India's commitment to strengthening its defense infrastructure.

These initiatives collectively aim to enhance India's defense preparedness and promote self-reliance in defense manufacturing.

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The Defence Acquisition Council's approval of capital acquisition proposals worth over ₹21,772 crore is poised to benefit several Indian companies with established expertise in defense manufacturing and a history of collaboration on similar projects.

Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL):

Function: MDL specializes in constructing warships and submarines for the Indian Navy.

Historical Projects: MDL has built guided-missile destroyers, stealth frigates, and submarines, including the Scorpene-class.

Potential Benefits: Given its track record, MDL is well-positioned to secure contracts for the construction of New Water Jet Fast Attack Crafts (NWJFACs).

Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE):

Function: GRSE designs and builds warships and patrol vessels for the Indian Navy and Coast Guard.

Historical Projects: GRSE has delivered over 100 warships, including frigates, corvettes, and patrol vessels.

Potential Benefits: With its experience in fast patrol vessels, GRSE could be a contender for the NWJFACs contracts.

Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL):

Function: BEL manufactures advanced electronic products for defense applications.

Historical Projects: BEL has supplied radars, communication equipment, and electronic warfare systems to the Indian armed forces.

Potential Benefits: BEL may provide electronic systems and communication suites for the NWJFACs and upgraded T-90 tanks.

Larsen & Toubro (L&T):

Function: L&T is involved in shipbuilding, defense equipment manufacturing, and engineering services.

Historical Projects: L&T has constructed offshore patrol vessels and is involved in submarine projects.

Potential Benefits: L&T's shipbuilding capabilities position it as a potential contractor for the NWJFACs.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL):

Function: HAL designs and manufactures aircraft and helicopters for defense services.

Historical Projects: HAL has produced Dornier aircraft for the Indian Navy and Coast Guard.

Potential Benefits: HAL is likely to secure contracts for supplying additional Dornier aircraft to the Indian Coast Guard.

Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL):

Function: BDL specializes in manufacturing missiles and allied defense equipment.

Historical Projects: BDL has produced various missile systems for the Indian armed forces.

Potential Benefits: BDL could be involved in supplying missile systems for the upgraded T-90 tanks.

Tata Power Strategic Engineering Division (SED):

Function: Tata Power SED provides defense solutions, including missile systems and command and control systems.

Historical Projects: The company has been involved in various defense projects, supplying equipment to the Indian Army and Navy.

Potential Benefits: Tata Power SED may contribute to the electronic and weapon systems for the NWJFACs and tank upgrades.

Mahindra Defence Systems:

Function: Mahindra Defence manufactures defense vehicles and equipment.

Historical Projects: The company has produced armored vehicles and has been involved in defense manufacturing.

Potential Benefits: Mahindra Defence could participate in supplying components or systems for the T-90 tank upgrades.

Conclusion: These companies, with their extensive experience and previous collaborations on defense projects, are well-positioned to benefit from the recent defense acquisition approvals. Their involvement would not only enhance India's defense capabilities but also contribute to the 'Make in India' initiative by promoting indigenous defense production.