Sub-systems, several for Russian-origin armour, put on no import list

The defence ministry has added over a 100 sub-systems and components to its 'no import' list, with plans to replace them with the help of industry and defence public sector units. Several items in the list of 107 announced by the ministry pertain to parts and spares for Russian origin armour like main battle tanks and troop carriers, besides sub-systems for frontline warships.

"These will be indigenised in the coming years and will only be procured from Indian industry after the timelines indicated against each of them in the list," a defence ministry official said. The list has detailed timelines for completely stopping imports of the items, staggered over the next six years.

"Projects involving design and development of equipment, systems, major platforms or upgrades by the industry can be taken up. DPSUs will offer these identified sub-systems for industry-led design and development," the official added.


Earlier in December, the ministry had announced a 'Positive Indigenisation List' of 2,851 sub-systems as well, which will no longer be imported. "This will be a great opportunity for the Indian industry to get integrated in the supply chains of manufacturing major defence platforms. The indigenous development of these sub-systems will bolster the economy and reduce the import dependence of DPSUs," another official said.

Among the items identified are parts for the T 72 and T 90 main battle tanks as well as BMP II troops carriers, all of which are of Russian origin. There have been concerns over the supplies of spares and parts from Russia given the ongoing battle in Ukraine, with officials trying to find ways to ensure that the preparedness of the Indian armed forces is not impacted.