DAC’s Massive ₹1.45 Lakh Crore Approval for New Tanks, Advanced Combat Vehicles and Next-gen Boats

New Delhi, India - On September 3, 2024, Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for ten major capital acquisition proposals amounting to ₹1,44,716 crore. This significant move underscores Indian government's commitment to enhancing its defence capabilities, with 99% of total cost being allocated for indigenous procurement under Buy (Indian) and Buy (Indian-Indigenously Designed Developed and Manufactured) categories.  

DAC's approval includes a major initiative for modernization of Indian Army’s tank fleet through procurement of Future Rey Combat Vehicles (FRCVs). FRCVs are envisioned to be state-of--art Main Battle Tanks, equipped with superior mobility, all-terrain capability, multilayered protection, precision, and lethal firepower, along with real-time situational awareness.  

Indigenous Solutions at Forefront of Modernization  

In dition to FRCVs, DAC has cleared proposals for procurement of Air Defence Fire Control Rars, designed to detect, track, and provide firing solutions for aerial targets. Also approved is Forward Repair Team (Tracked), developed by Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited. This equipment, which offers robust cross-country mobility, is intended for in-situ repairs during mechanized operations and will be authorized for use by both mechanized infantry battalions and armoured regiments.

council has also approved three AoNs aimed at enhancing capabilities of Indian Coast Guard (ICG). se include procurement of Dornier-228 aircraft, Next Generation Fast Patrol Vessels with high operational features in challenging wear conditions, and Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels equipped with vanced technology for extended long-range operations. se acquisitions are set to bolster ICG’s capacity for maritime surveillance, patrolling, search and rescue operations, and disaster relief efforts.  

Honouring Legacy amid Strategic Upgres  

During meeting, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh paid tribute to late Indian Coast Guard (ICG) DG Rakesh Pal, who passed away on August 18, 2024. Singh lauded DG Pal’s exceptional contributions to growth and expansion of ICG and extended condolences, prayers, and support to his family. All DAC members observed a moment of silence in respect of DG Rakesh Pal, whose legacy continues to inspire.  

recent developments in tank modernization program, including trials of light tanks and system upgres for T-72 tanks, have sparked significant discussions. role of tanks in modern warfare once thought to be diminishing, is reaffirmed by se updates. FRCVs will play a crucial role in ensuring Indian Army’s operational reiness across various terrains and conflict scenarios.  

FRCV Program Advancing Army’s Armoured Capabilities

FRCV program is a pivotal step in vancing Indian Army’s armoured capabilities. Designed to replace ageing T-72 fleet, which has been in service since 1979, FRCV will offer enhanced operational effectiveness and aptability. Although initial T-72 fleet has been succeeded by T-90S tanks, older T-72 models, even after upgres, are becoming increasingly unsustainable.

development of FRCV has undergone several phases, initially planned under Make Project and later evolving through different procurement models. most recent RFI in 2024 and expedited AoN reflect strategic importance of this program. Once inducted, FRCVs are expected to replace remaining T-72 tanks, dressing obsolescence and operational challenges.  

GSPS 2032 framework and Modernization Fundamentals 

modernization approach outlined in DAC meeting is aligned with GSPS 2032 framework, emphasizing a holistic and time-sensitive strategy. This includes prioritizing functional capabilities, balancing expansion with modernization, and optimizing legacy systems. focus remains on enhancing lethality, survivability, agility, sustainability, connectivity, and affordability, with a strong emphasis on indigenous solutions and technology convergence.  

planned upgres and overhauls are designed to extend life of existing tanks beyond 32 years, incorporating vanced subsystem and platform improvements. This strategic approach ensures that Indian Army remains capable of achieving combat overmatch and operational excellence in face of evolving threats.