India Clears ₹2.38 Trillion Defence Deal: Major Boost to Military Power

To strengthen National Security of India Government has approved defense procurement deal worth ₹2.38 trillion. This proposals were cleared by the Defense Acquisition Council (DAC) which is chaired by Defense Minister Rajnath Singh. This approval mentions the advanced military systems such as S-400 missile systems, medium transport aircraft and remotely piloted strike aircraft (drones) and upgrades to Su-30 fighter engines.

Key Defense Systems Approved Under the Deal

The procurement deal focuses heavily on to strengthening the capabilities of the Indian Air Force (IAF) and to enhance overall operational readiness of the country.

The major components include,

• S-400 Long-Range Surface-to-Air Missile System
• Medium Transport Aircraft which to replace ageing fleets like AN-32 and IL-76
• Remotely Piloted Strike Aircraft (drones)
• Upgradation of Su-30 fighter aircraft engines

S-400 Missile System: Strengthening Air Defense Shield

The S-400 missile system is one of the most advanced air defense systems in the world. It is designed to detect, track and neutralize long-range aerial threats  including enemy aircraft, missiles and drones. Its induction into defense system will significantly secure the India’s ability to protect strategic and high-value assets. This system acts as a multi-layered defense shield and the key component of India’s air defense network.

New Transport Aircraft to Boost Strategic Mobility

The approval also includes the procurement of medium transport aircraft which will replace the older fleets like AN-32 and IL-76.

These aircraft are essential for,

• Rapid troop deployment
• Logistics and supply operations
• Disaster relief and humanitarian missions

Modern transport aircraft will improve the India’s strategic airlift capability and will enabling faster and more efficient military operations across the terrains and topography.

Rise of Drone Warfare: Remotely Piloted Strike Aircraft

The inclusion of the remotely piloted strike aircraft (drones) highlights the growing focus on modern warfare technologies.

These drones will enable the precision strike capabilities and also Intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) related to security.

With global warfare increasingly shifting toward the unmanned systems this will pave the way for modern warfare tactics.

Su-30 Upgrade: Enhancing Fighter Fleet Longevity

The upgradation of the Su-30 aircraft engines and aggregates is another key part of the deal. This upgrade will,

• Extend the service life of fighter aircraft
• Will improve operational efficiency
• Reduce the maintenance challenges

Role of Defense Acquisition Council (DAC)

The Defense Acquisition Council (DAC) is the highest decision-making body in India for the defense procurement.

It is responsible for the approving major acquisitions and to ensure the armed forces are equipped with modern and effective systems.

It is Chaired by the Defense Minister and the DAC plays a crucial role in balancing strategic needs, budget considerations and technological advancements.

Question

Q. The S-400 missile system is designed to counter which of the following threats?

A. Submarines
B. Tanks
C. Aircraft and missiles
D. Cyber attacks