DAC approves acquisition proposals worth Rs 1.1 L cr, Pg9

Key Highlights:

• The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved defence acquisition proposals worth approximately Rs 1.1 lakh crore.
• The procurements include CBRN Recce Vehicles, Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH), Arudhra Radars, and Marine Gas Turbines (MGT).
• Approximately 98% of these approved procurements will be sourced from the Indian defence industry.
• The acquisitions are intended for the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force to enhance their operational capabilities.

Detailed Insights:

• The DAC is the highest decision-making body in India for approving major military procurements.
• Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) is the initial administrative approval for proposed acquisitions, marking the first step in the procurement process.
• CBRN Recce Vehicles are crucial for detecting, identifying, and monitoring areas contaminated with chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear agents.
• Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) will be utilized by the Army and Air Force for complex missions across diverse terrains.
• The Arudhra Radar is an indigenous 4D multi-function phased array radar developed by DRDO and manufactured by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL).
• These radars are slated to replace existing Air Route Surveillance Radars at various Naval Air Stations, enhancing surveillance capabilities.
• The procurement of Marine Gas Turbines (MGT) aims to reduce India's dependency on foreign vendors for warship propulsion systems.
• The Defence Forces Secure Access Card (DEFSAC) System was also approved for installation to enhance security for the Indian Air Force.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Defence Acquisition Council (DAC): India's apex body responsible for approving major military procurements and defence policies.
• Acceptance of Necessity (AoN): The initial administrative approval granted for proposed defence acquisitions, signifying an in-principle nod.
• Indigenization: The strategic process of developing and manufacturing defence equipment domestically to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers.
• CBRN: An acronym referring to Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear agents, often associated with weapons or threats.