India clears ₹2.38 lakh crore defence proposals, focus on aircraft, S-400 systems and strike drones

In a major push to strengthen India’s military capabilities, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has approved defence procurement proposals worth ₹2.38 lakh crore, covering key acquisitions for the Army, Navy and Air Force.

The approvals, cleared at a meeting chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, include plans to procure medium transport aircraft, additional S-400 air defence missile systems, and remotely piloted strike aircraft (drones).

The move is part of a broader effort to modernise India’s armed forces and enhance preparedness amid evolving regional security challenges. The scale of the clearance—approximately $25 billion—marks one of the largest defence procurement approvals in recent years.

Among the key proposals is the acquisition of medium transport aircraft for the Indian Air Force, aimed at strengthening logistics, troop movement and rapid deployment capabilities. The DAC also approved the procurement of five additional S-400 surface-to-air missile systems, which are designed to intercept aircraft, drones and ballistic missiles over long ranges.

In addition, the council cleared proposals for remotely piloted strike aircraft, reflecting a growing focus on unmanned and next-generation warfare technologies. These systems are expected to enhance surveillance and precision strike capabilities without risking personnel.

The approvals also include upgrades and overhaul of existing platforms such as Su-30 fighter aircraft components, along with artillery systems and air defence platforms for the Army.

Officials said the decisions are aligned with India’s long-term strategy to build a technologically advanced and self-reliant defence ecosystem. The push for modernisation comes amid increasing use of drones, missiles and advanced air defence systems in global conflicts, prompting countries to upgrade their military capabilities.

The DAC’s clearance represents the Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) stage, which is the first step in the procurement process. The proposals will now move to subsequent stages, including cost negotiations and final approval by the Cabinet Committee on Security.