17th February 2024 (9 Topics)

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DAC have cleared acquisition of major purchases for Armed Forces

Context

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh, recently approved capital acquisition proposals worth ?84,560 crore to enhance the capabilities of the Armed Forces and the Indian Coast Guard.

Approved Proposals

Anti-Tank Mines with Seismic Sensors:

The DAC granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) under the Buy (Indian-Indigenously Designed Developed and Manufactured, or IDDM) category for the procurement of a new generation of anti-tank mines. These mines come equipped with seismic sensors and additional safety features. They will enhance the Army’s ability to engage targets beyond visual line of sight.

Canister Launched Anti-Armour Loiter Munitions System:

To enhance operational efficiency and domination in the Tactical Battle Area, the DAC accorded AoN for the procurement of the Canister Launched Anti-Armour Loiter Munitions System. This system allows engagement of targets beyond visual range by Mechanised Forces.

What Are Loitering Munitions?

A loitering munitions, also known as a suicide drone, kamikaze drone, or exploding drone, is an aerial weapon with a built-in munitions (warhead). Unlike traditional missiles that follow a predetermined trajectory, loitering munitions can loiter or wait passively in the target area until a suitable target is identified.

Advantages:

Autonomous operations
Precision engagements
Flexibility
Reduced Collateral Damage
Dynamic threat Response

Applications

Suppression of Enemy Air Defences
Counter-Insurgency Operations
Maritime Surveillance
Force Multiplier

3. Air Defence Tactical Control Radar:

- The DAC approved the procurement of Air Defence Tactical Control Radar under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category. This radar system will strengthen the Air Defence Systems by detecting slow, small, and low-flying targets, as well as providing surveillance, detection, and tracking capabilities.

4. Medium Range Maritime Reconnaissance and Multi-Mission Maritime Aircraft:

- - Through the Buy and Make category, the DAC granted AoN for the procurement of these aircraft. They will enhance the surveillance and interdiction capabilities of the Indian Navy and the Indian Coast Guard across the vast maritime area of the country.

5. Active Towed Array Sonar:

- The DAC approved the procurement of Active Towed Array Sonar for Indian Naval Ships. This sonar system operates at low frequencies and various depths, enabling long-range detection of adversary submarines.

6. Heavy Weight Torpedoes (HWT):

- The DAC accorded AoN for the procurement of HWTs, enhancing the attacking capabilities of the Kalvari-class submarines.

7. Flight Refueller Aircraft (FRA):

- The DAC approved the procurement of FRA to enhance the operational capabilities and reach of the Indian Air Force.

8. Software Defined Radios (SDRs):

- The DAC granted AoN under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category for the procurement of SDRs for the Indian Coast Guard.

Defence Acquisition Council

As the highest decision-making body, it oversees policies and capital acquisitions for the Army, Navy, Air Force, and the Indian Coast Guard.
The DAC was established in 2001 after the Kargil War.
Chaired by the Minister of Defence, it ensures efficient procurement processes and strategic decision-making.