DAC Approves ₹3.60 Lakh Crore Defence Acquisitions to Enhance India's Combat Readiness
On February 12, 2026, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, approved capital acquisition proposals valued at nearly ₹3.60 lakh crore. This significant approval aims to bolster the combat readiness of India’s armed forces, marking one of the largest single clearances to date.
Indian Air Force: Fighters, Missiles and High-Altitude Surveillance
The DAC has granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for the Indian Air Force to procure Multi Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA), combat missiles, and an Air-Ship Based High Altitude Pseudo Satellite (AS-HAPS). The MRFA programme is anticipated to enhance the Indian Air Force's air dominance and long-range strike capabilities, contributing to deterrence. Most of these aircraft will be produced domestically, in line with the government's indigenisation goals. The approved combat missiles are designed to improve stand-off ground attack capabilities with extended strike reach and precision. The AS-HAPS platform will provide sustained intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), electronic intelligence, telecommunications, and remote sensing for military operations.
Indian Army: Armour and Mobility Upgrades
The Indian Army received AoN for the acquisition of Anti-Tank Mines (Vibhav) and the refurbishment of vehicle platforms including Armoured Recovery Vehicles (ARVs), T-72 main battle tanks, and BMP-II infantry combat vehicles. The Vibhav mines will serve as anti-tank obstacle systems to hinder and disrupt enemy mechanised forces. The overhaul of existing armoured platforms aims to extend their service life and maintain the operational effectiveness of frontline units.
Indian Navy: Power Generation and Maritime Surveillance
The Indian Navy was granted AoN for a 4 MW Marine Gas Turbine-based Electric Power Generator and additional P-8I Long Range Maritime Reconnaissance aircraft. Developed under the Make-I category of the Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020, the power generator is expected to reduce reliance on foreign sources and strengthen naval self-reliance. The acquisition of additional P-8I aircraft will enhance the Navy’s long-range anti-submarine warfare, maritime surveillance, and strike capabilities.
Indian Coast Guard: Enhanced Maritime Surveillance
The Indian Coast Guard received AoN for acquiring Electro-Optical/Infra-Red (EO/IR) systems for Dornier aircraft. This upgrade is set to significantly improve maritime surveillance and monitoring abilities, bolstering coastal and offshore security.
Strategic Signal
According to officials, these approvals underscore the government's commitment to swift capability enhancement, indigenisation, and readiness across the armed services and the Coast Guard. With significant programmes covering fighters, missiles, armoured platforms, maritime patrol aircraft, and surveillance systems, the ₹3.60 lakh crore AoN is anticipated to drive India’s military modernisation and fortify the domestic defence manufacturing sector.
