Defence Acquisition Council clears projects worth Rs 67,000 crore

The defence ministry has given a go ahead for procurements worth ₹67,000 crore, including indigenous medium altitude long endurance drones and autonomous surface vessels that will see several Indian companies competing for orders. The Defence Acquisition Council, led by defence minister Rajnath Singh, approved several proposals on Tuesday, including procurement of mountain radars and upgrades to infantry combat vehicles and air defence systems.

The procurement of indigenous MALE drones is likely to see a strong competition between Indian companies that are investing into UAV technology, including Adani Defence, Solar Defence & Aerospace Ltd and HAL. There is a large requirement for such drones both in India and abroad.

"The proposed MALE drones can carry multiple payloads and weapons, and operate at longer ranges for long endurance missions. They will significantly enhance round-the-clock surveillance and combat capability of the armed forces," an official said.