DAC to weigh acquisition of Rafale ahead of Macron visit, Pg12

Key Highlights:

• The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) is set to meet in the second week of February to consider procurement proposals.
• The proposals include the acquisition of 114 Rafale fighter aircraft from France.
• President Macron is expected to meet with Rajnath Singh to discuss defence cooperation.
• Approximately 30-40% of the Rafale aircraft will be manufactured in India with indigenous components.
• The procurement could bring the total Rafale fleet in India to 176 aircraft.

Detailed Insights:

• The DAC meeting will grant Acceptance of Necessity to acquisition proposals aimed at enhancing the operational capabilities of the armed forces.
• The proposal for Rafale aircraft acquisition will be placed before the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) for final approval after DAC clearance.
• 18 Rafale aircraft are likely to be acquired in flyaway condition to meet the Indian Air Force’s immediate operational requirements.
• The Indian Air Force chief has expressed concerns over delays in fighter aircraft deliveries by Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd.
• The IAF has emphasized the urgency of strengthening its fighter fleet due to the evolving regional security environment.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Defence Acquisition Council (DAC): A council that decides on new policies and capital acquisitions for the Indian Armed Forces.
• Acceptance of Necessity (AoN): The first step in India's defence procurement procedure, signifying the military's recognition of a requirement.
• Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS): A committee of the Indian Union Cabinet that deals with issues pertaining to defence, internal security, and foreign affairs.