India has approved defence procurement proposals worth approximately ₹2.12 lakh crore to strengthen the operational capabilities of the Army, Navy and Air Force. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for the proposed acquisitions on October 26, 2026.
Around 82% of the proposed procurement value is earmarked for Indian industry, supporting the government’s push to strengthen domestic defence manufacturing and reduce dependence on imports.
The proposals cover a wide range of military equipment, including helicopters, drones, artillery systems, air defence equipment, surveillance technologies, radars and naval platforms. The clearances form part of India’s ongoing efforts to modernise its armed forces and improve operational readiness.
Army to Get Drones, Helicopters and Air Defence Systems
The Indian Army’s proposed acquisitions include high-mobility vehicles, self-propelled tracked gun systems, gunshot response systems and light multi-role helicopters.
The proposals also cover Very Short-Range Air Defence Systems (VSHORADS), platform-based counter-unmanned aerial systems, long-range unmanned aerial systems, surveillance drones, an integrated surveillance and strike system, and long-range kamikaze drone systems.
The high-mobility vehicles are intended to improve troop movement and logistics in challenging terrain, while the tracked gun systems will strengthen firepower for mechanised formations.
The proposed helicopters will support reconnaissance, surveillance, combat operations, search and rescue, and humanitarian assistance. Counter-drone systems are expected to improve protection against emerging aerial threats.
Navy to Strengthen Anti-Missile Defence
For the Indian Navy, the DAC has granted in-principle approval for an Active Offboard Decoy System (AODS) and other major naval platforms.
The decoy system is designed to improve protection against incoming anti-ship missiles by helping divert threats away from naval vessels.
The proposed naval platforms are expected to incorporate modern combat capabilities, with an emphasis on indigenous design and construction. These acquisitions aim to strengthen the Navy’s maritime security and operational capabilities.
Air Force to Receive Helicopters and Advanced Radars
The Indian Air Force’s proposals include helicopters, air defence systems, weapons and mobile X-band Doppler weather radar systems.
Special utility helicopters are intended to meet critical air transport requirements. The mobile weather radars will provide high-resolution, localised weather surveillance in forward areas, supporting operations in challenging conditions.
The proposed acquisitions are expected to improve air defence, surveillance and operational preparedness across the service.
Domestic Defence Manufacturers May Gain Opportunities
With approximately 82% of the proposed procurement value earmarked for Indian industry, the clearances could create opportunities for domestic manufacturers across defence electronics, aerospace, artillery, drones and shipbuilding.
Companies operating in these segments may compete for individual requirements as procurement processes progress. However, the AoN clearance represents an initial approval of the need for equipment, not a final contract award. Tenders, technical evaluations, vendor selection and contract negotiations must follow, and the eventual orders will depend on these processes.
The proposals mark another step in India’s military modernisation programme, while reinforcing the role of domestic industry in supplying equipment for the armed forces.
