Defence Acquisition Council Clears Rs 3.6 Lakh Crore Rafale Deal

India has approved one of its largest-ever defence procurement proposals, with the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) clearing projects worth approximately Rs 3.6 lakh crore. The decision includes the acquisition of 114 Rafale fighter jets under the Multi Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) programme, advanced combat missiles, Air-Ship Based High Altitude Pseudo Satellite (AS-HAPS) systems, and key platforms for the Army, Navy and Coast Guard. The move aims to strengthen India’s deterrence posture amid evolving regional security challenges.

114 Rafale Jets to Boost Air Superiority

The DAC, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for the procurement of 114 Rafale jets. Most aircraft are expected to be manufactured in India, aligning with the ‘Make in India’ initiative and boosting domestic aerospace capabilities.

The Indian Air Force (IAF), currently operating around 30 squadrons against a sanctioned strength of 42, faces growing security concerns along its western and northern borders. The induction of Rafale jets will enhance air superiority, long-range strike capability and overall combat readiness. The deal is likely to progress to technical and commercial negotiations before final approval.

Advanced Missiles and AS-HAPS Capability

The approved package includes advanced combat missiles designed to enhance stand-off ground attack capability. These systems will enable deep precision strikes with improved accuracy and survivability.

The Air-Ship Based High Altitude Pseudo Satellite (AS-HAPS) will provide sustained intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR). It will support electronic intelligence gathering, secure communications and remote sensing, significantly expanding India’s high-altitude operational capabilities.

Army Modernisation and Platform Upgrades

For the Indian Army, AoN has been granted for the procurement of Vibhav anti-tank mines and overhaul of Armoured Recovery Vehicles (ARVs), T-72 tanks and BMP-II Infantry Combat Vehicles. The Vibhav mines will form part of an integrated anti-tank obstacle system to restrict enemy mechanised movement. Platform upgrades aim to extend operational life and maintain combat readiness.

Important Facts for Exams

• Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) is the apex body for capital procurement decisions in the Ministry of Defence.
• Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) is the first formal step in India’s defence procurement process.
• MRFA programme aims to procure 114 multi-role fighter aircraft for the IAF.
• AS-HAPS operates in the stratosphere for long-duration ISR missions.

Navy and Coast Guard Strengthening Measures

The Indian Navy has received AoN for a 4 MW Marine Gas Turbine-based Electric Power Generator under the Make-I category of the Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020, reducing reliance on foreign suppliers. Additional P-8I Long-Range Maritime Reconnaissance Aircraft will enhance anti-submarine warfare, maritime surveillance and strike capabilities.

The Indian Coast Guard will procure Electro-Optical/Infra-Red systems for Dornier aircraft to strengthen maritime domain awareness and coastal security operations.