S-400, Dhanush Guns and transport aircraft cleared by DAC in $25 billion
India has taken a significant leap in strengthening its defence capabilities, as the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Rajnath Singh, approved a massive procurement package worth ₹2.38 lakh crore (approximately $25 billion). This landmark decision marks one of the largest-ever defence acquisition drives in the country’s history, reinforcing India’s commitment to modernisation, self-reliance, and operational readiness.
Strategic Air Defence & Air Power Enhancement
At the core of this approval is the acquisition of the advanced S-400 missile system, a globally renowned air defence platform capable of detecting, tracking, and neutralising aerial threats at long ranges. Its deployment significantly boosts India’s ability to protect critical infrastructure and respond to evolving aerial threats.
Complementing this is the upgrade of the Sukhoi Su-30MKI fleet. Enhancements to aero engine components and aggregates will extend the aircraft’s operational life while maintaining combat effectiveness for years to come.
The DAC has also cleared the induction of Remotely Piloted Strike Aircraft (RPSA), which will play a crucial role in precision strikes, intelligence gathering, and surveillance missions—key elements in modern warfare.
Modernising Airlift Capabilities
A major highlight is the approval of new Medium Transport Aircraft, aimed at replacing ageing fleets such as the Antonov An-32 and Ilyushin Il-76. This move will significantly enhance the Indian Air Force’s ability to conduct strategic and tactical airlift operations, ensuring faster deployment of troops, equipment, and humanitarian aid when needed.
Boost to Army Firepower & Communication Systems
For the Indian Army, the DAC has sanctioned a wide array of advanced systems designed to strengthen battlefield capabilities. These include:
- Air Defence Tracked Systems for mobile protection
- Armoured Piercing Tank Ammunition for enhanced combat lethality
- High Capacity Radio Relay systems to improve battlefield communication
- The indigenous Dhanush artillery gun, reinforcing long-range firepower
- Runway Independent Aerial Surveillance Systems for flexible monitoring capabilities
Together, these systems will significantly improve the Army’s operational efficiency, situational awareness, and combat readiness.
Maritime & Amphibious Capabilities Strengthened
The DAC also approved the procurement of Heavy Duty Air Cushion Vehicles (hovercraft), which will support a range of maritime missions including coastal patrol, reconnaissance, search and rescue, and rapid logistics deployment. These platforms are particularly valuable for operations in shallow waters and difficult coastal terrains.
Record-Breaking Defence Procurement Momentum
The current financial year has witnessed unprecedented progress in defence acquisitions. In FY26 alone:
- Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) has been granted for 55 proposals worth ₹6.73 lakh crore
- Capital procurement contracts for 503 proposals, totalling ₹2.28 lakh crore, have already been finalised
According to the Ministry of Defence, both figures represent the highest ever recorded in a single fiscal year, highlighting an accelerated push towards capability enhancement and indigenisation.
Conclusion
This ₹2.38 lakh crore defence approval underscores India’s strategic intent to build a robust, future-ready military force. From advanced air defence systems like the S-400 to indigenous artillery such as the Dhanush gun, and from next-generation transport aircraft to cutting-edge surveillance platforms, the decisions taken by the DAC reflect a comprehensive approach to national security.
As geopolitical dynamics evolve, such large-scale investments will play a crucial role in ensuring India remains prepared, agile, and technologically superior across all domains of warfare.
