India Enhances CAPF Capabilities with Modern Weapons, UAVs, and Bulletproof Vehicles

The Government of India has taken substantial measures to enhance the operational capabilities of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) through the implementation of Modernisation Plan-IV. This Central Sector Scheme is designed to provide the forces with state-of-the-art weapons, surveillance systems, mobility platforms, and modern operational infrastructure. These details were disclosed by Minister of State for Home Affairs, Shri Nityanand Rai, in a written response in the Lok Sabha on August 4, 2026.

As part of the modernisation initiative, CAPFs have been outfitted with a variety of cutting-edge weapon systems and combat equipment. This includes assault rifles, Glock pistols featuring integrated Corner Shot systems, and modern ammunition and weapon accessories, all of which enhance the personnel's firepower and combat effectiveness across a range of operational environments.

The forces have also bolstered their surveillance and intelligence-gathering capabilities with the introduction of advanced technologies. These include thermal imagers, passive night vision goggles, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), drones, and Automatic Fire Detection and Suppression Systems, along with other electronic surveillance equipment. These tools have significantly improved situational awareness in border guarding, counter-insurgency, and internal security operations.

Additionally, the Government has prioritized the enhancement of communication and information technology infrastructure for the CAPFs. This has been achieved by providing secure communication equipment, Hyper-Converged Infrastructure (HCI) servers, networking infrastructure, command-and-control systems, and digital operational platforms, all of which facilitate faster and more secure information exchange during missions.

Modernisation efforts have further amplified mobility by introducing Medium Bullet Proof Vehicles, Light Bullet Proof Vehicles, Mine Protected Vehicles, Wheel Armoured Platforms, Emergency Rescue Fire Tenders, and Rubberised Inflatable Boats. These advancements have improved the forces' operational effectiveness across diverse terrains and scenarios.

For improved troop safety, the CAPFs have been supplied with enhanced force protection gear, including bullet-resistant jackets, ballistic helmets, protective shields, and personal protective equipment. Specialized operational capabilities have also been upgraded with new Counter-IED and bomb disposal equipment, rescue and disaster response systems, and specialized tactical gear.

Infrastructure development remains a key focus of Modernisation Plan-IV, with investments directed toward modern training facilities, communication networks, logistics support systems, ICT infrastructure, maintenance facilities, and operational infrastructure to bolster border management and internal security duties.

According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, these modernisation initiatives have substantially improved the operational capabilities of the CAPFs. Enhancements in mobility, surveillance, situational awareness, intelligence gathering, force protection, and response capability have strengthened the forces' effectiveness in border guarding, counter-insurgency operations, anti-Naxal missions, and other internal security operations, enabling them to better address evolving security challenges.

For the financial year 2026–27, up to July 26, 2026, allocations under Modernisation Plan-IV include ₹117.01 crore for the CRPF, ₹88.98 crore for the Assam Rifles, ₹38.40 crore for the BSF, ₹38.03 crore for the CISF, ₹39.52 crore for the SSB, ₹32.71 crore for the NSG, and ₹8.80 crore for the ITBP. Since the scheme's inception, the Government has allocated a total financial outlay of ₹1,523 crore for the modernisation of the CAPFs.

This ongoing implementation of Modernisation Plan-IV underscores the Government's dedication to equipping India's Central Armed Police Forces with cutting-edge technology, modern infrastructure, and advanced operational capabilities. This initiative ensures that the forces remain prepared to tackle emerging threats and effectively safeguard national security.