In a major push to strengthen national security, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has cleared defence procurements worth ₹3.6 lakh crore. The approvals mark one of the largest military modernisation drives in India’s history and aim to significantly enhance combat readiness across air and maritime domains.
The centrepiece of the package is the proposed acquisition of 114 Rafale multi-role fighter jets for the Indian Air Force (IAF). The jets are expected to boost the IAF’s squadron strength and enhance its capability to conduct precision strikes, air superiority missions and deep penetration operations amid evolving regional security challenges.
In addition to the Rafale jets, the DAC’s approvals cover the acquisition of P-8I long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft for the Indian Navy, combat missile systems and high-altitude surveillance platforms, strengthening India’s aerial and maritime defence posture.
The move marks one of the largest defence procurement decisions in India’s history, aiming to modernise equipment, expand aerial strike range and reinforce deterrence across domains.
