Drones, Missiles, Radars, Fighter jets: Indian Armed Forces to Get Nearly 1 Lakh crore Infusion for Game-Changer Tech

Defense News ,India :- In the past week, the Indian government took significant steps to strengthen the country's defense capabilities by approving several major defense deals worth over Rs 92,000 crore. These investments are part of a broader strategy to enhance defense capabilities and promote self-reliance in defense manufacturing. Let's delve into the key developments and their implications for India's defense landscape.

IAF's Sukhoi Fighter Jet Upgrades:

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), received approval from the defense ministry for a Rs 60,000 crore project to upgrade the Su-30MKI fighter jet fleet. This initiative aims to enhance the aircraft's capabilities by integrating new radars, mission control systems, electronic warfare capabilities, and weapon systems. Importantly, this project reflects India's commitment to replace Russian-origin components with indigenous systems, including a new radar system and electronic warfare capabilities.

Brahmos Supersonic Missiles:

One of the major contracts approved involves the acquisition of over 220 extended-range BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, valued at approximately Rs 19,500 crore. These missiles, with a striking range of 450 km, will be deployed on the frontline warships of the Indian Navy. This contract, expected to be signed in March, marks the largest-ever deal for BrahMos missiles, providing a substantial boost to India's naval capabilities and will be delivered over five to six years.

Advanced Engines for Fighter Jets:

In addition to the BrahMos deal, the Indian government approved a project for the manufacture of advanced engines for the existing fleet of MiG-29 fighters in the Indian Air Force (IAF). This collaboration between HAL and Russia is estimated to cost about Rs 5,300 crore, contributing to the modernization of the IAF's fighter jet capabilities.

High-Powered Radars and Air Defence Guns:

Further strengthening India's defense capabilities, the government gave the green light to two projects for the acquisition of high-powered radars and new versions of the L-70 air defense guns, with each project valued at around Rs 6,000 crore. These initiatives, led by Larsen and Toubro (L&T), aim to enhance India's radar coverage along both borders and include the ambitious Made in India Close-in Weapon System project, valued at around Rs 7,000 crore.

Strengthening National Security and Indigenous Manufacturing:

These investments underscore India's commitment to bolstering defense capabilities and promoting indigenous manufacturing. With the BrahMos missiles already playing a crucial role in precision strikes, contracts worth over Rs 38,000 crore, India solidifies its position as a key player in the global defense market. These developments align with India's broader strategy of self-reliance in defense production, contributing to both national security and global recognition.

Future Outlook:

India's defense sector is undergoing a paradigm shift towards indigenization and self-reliance, evident in the recent approvals of significant deals and projects. The focus on enhancing the Indian Navy's firepower with BrahMos missiles and the emphasis on 'aatmanirbharta' (self-reliance) in defense manufacturing reflect India's evolving defense strategy. These developments aim not only to strengthen national security but also position India as a key player in the global defense export market.

Rs 3 Lakh Crore Annual Defense Production by 2028-29:

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced a milestone for India's defense sector, with the annual defense production expected to reach Rs 3 lakh crore by 2028-29. Singh highlighted the government's focus on long-term gains across all sectors, aiming to develop India into a developed nation by 2047. The defense sector has been allocated Rs 6.2 lakh crore in the 2024-25 budget, the highest among all ministries, reflecting the government's commitment to national security.

Budget Allocation and Strategic Acquisitions:

In the 2024-25 budget, the defense ministry received Rs 6.2 lakh crore, the highest allocation among all ministries. Capital acquisitions worth over Rs 4.3 lakh crore have been approved, underscoring the government's commitment to enhancing national security. Singh emphasized the importance of jointness among the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, highlighting improved coordination to address challenges jointly.