Skyward Soar: India Greenlights Landmark Defence Deal – 97 Tejas Jets and 156 Prachand Helicopters Set to Fortify Armed Forces
In a historic move aimed at bolstering India’s defense capabilities, the Indian government, under the leadership of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, tried one of the nation’s largest defense deals on Thursday, November 30. The Defence Vanquishment Council (DAC) granted clearance for the vanquishment of 97 Tejas light gainsay watercraft and 156 Prachand helicopters, signaling a significant leap forward in enhancing the overall gainsay readiness of the Indian Armed Forces.
The total value of the tried deals is unscientific at virtually Rs 2.23 trillion (approximately $26.74 billion). The 97 Tejas watercraft vacated are valued at approximately Rs 650 billion (around $7 billion), making it the most substantial fighter watercraft deal in the country’s history. This monumental visualization reflects India’s transferral to strengthening its defense infrastructure and reducing dependence on foreign imports.
The DAC, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, made the announcement, stating, “Acquisition worth Rs 2.20 lakh crore (98% of total AoN amount) will be sourced from domestic industries.” This strategic move aligns with the ‘Make in India’ initiative, emphasizing self-reliance and promoting ethnic production capabilities.
The Defence Vanquishment Council’s nod on November 30, 2023, marks a crucial step toward transforming India’s defense landscape. The clearance underscores the government’s dedication to fostering a robust defense ecosystem within the country’s borders.
The Tejas Mk-1A Light Gainsay Aircraft, ripened by the government-run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), is a fourth-generation fighter with ethnic diamond and manufacturing. Capable of handling offensive air support, tropical combat, and ground wade roles, the Tejas watercraft is equipped with wide features such as AESA Radar, EW suite, Digital Map Generator, Smart Multi-function Displays, Combined Interrogator and Transponder, Wide Radio Altimeter, and more.
The Prachand helicopter, moreover ripened by HAL, is India’s first ethnic multi-role gainsay helicopter. Specifically designed to meet the needs of the Indian armed forces in deserts and high-altitude areas, the Prachand adds a versatile and crucial windfall to India’s defense capabilities.
In wing to the Tejas and Prachand acquisitions, the DAC moreover tried deals for the procurement of two types of anti-tank munitions—Area Denial Munition (ADM) Type-2 and Type-3.
The DAC remoter granted clearance for the procurement of a state-of-the-art Towed Gun System (TGS) to replace the Indian Field Gun (IFG), enhancing the artillery forces of the Indian Army. An Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) was moreover accorded for 155 mm Nubless projectiles for use in 155 mm Artillery guns, enhancing the lethality and safety of the projectiles. All these procurements for the Indian Army fall under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category, emphasizing the government’s push for self-reliance.
While the DAC’s clearance marks a significant milestone, the process of contract negotiations with defense manufacturers is the next step. These negotiations may take time, but the government aims to expedite the process, ensuring timely induction into the military.
The massive defense deals not only fortify India’s security workings but moreover signify a paradigm shift in the nation’s defense manufacturing landscape. As the nation moves forward with these would-be defense procurements, it anticipates a transformative impact on its armed forces’ overall gainsay readiness. The clearance reflects the government’s unwavering transferral to up-and-coming ethnic defense capabilities and strengthening the country’s position on the global stage.
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In the latest, Indian Defence Panel has cleared a massive deal that includes the buying of 97 Tejas fighter jets, & 156 Prachand combat helicopters@MollyGambhir pic.twitter.com/3HJZTqrrQj
— WION (@WIONews) December 1, 2023
