The Defence Ministry of India (MoD), yesterday, gave a green signal for the procurement of long-range rockets, missiles, radar systems, and military platforms worth Rs 79,000 crore for the tri-services (Army, Navy, and Air Force). The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), headed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, gave a go-ahead to the proposals.
But what’s in for the three forces? What are the acquisitions, and how will they assist the tri-services?
What are we getting for the Army, Navy and Air Force?
Indian Army is getting loiter munition systems for its artillery regiments, low-level lightweight radars, long-range guided rocket ammunition for Pinaka rocket system and an integrated drone detection and interdiction system (Mk-II).
Talking about the Indian Navy, the approval was accorded for the procurement of high-frequency software-defined radios (HF SDR) Manpack. Apart from this, the Navy is leasing an unspecified number of high altitude long range (HALE) remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS), which will assist the force with continuous intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance over the Indian Ocean region aka IOR.
The major acquisitions of the Indian Air Force include an automatic take-off and landing recording system, Astra Mk-II missiles, a full mission simulator, and SPICE-1000 long-range guidance kits.
A look at how these procurements would help tri-services -
Loiter munition will be used for precision strike of tactical targets, whereas low-level lightweight radars will detect and track small-sized, low-flying unmanned aerial systems (UAVs).
The long-range guided rockets will enhance the range and accuracy of Pinaka rocket systems for effective engagement of high-value targets.
An integrated drone detection and interdiction system (Mk-II) with enhanced range will protect the vital assets of the Indian Army in the tactical battle area and hinterland (the interior or rural regions away from the immediate border or the main forward operating bases).
Astra Mk-II missiles with enhanced range will increase the capability of the fighter aircraft to neutralise adversary aircraft from a large standoff range.
The full mission simulator for light combat aircraft Tejas will augment pilots' training in a cost-effective and safe manner, while SPICE-1000 will enhance the long-range precision strike capability of the IAF.
Follow us
