New Radars for Enhanced Surveillance
Under a project valued at around Rs 6,000 crore, the Indian Air Force will procure new radars to replace and augment the existing chain of radars along both borders. This move aims to strengthen India’s radar coverage in strategic areas.
Close-in Weapon System Project
The Cabinet Committee has also approved the ambitious Made in India Close-in Weapon System project, valued at around Rs 7,000 crore. This system, based on a derivative of air defence guns, will provide enhanced protection to vital assets and points against potential attacks by drones and aircraft.
Boost to Indigenous Manufacturing
The new radars and Close-in Weapon Systems will be manufactured by Larsen and Toubro in collaboration with several Indian small and medium enterprises. This initiative is expected to create a significant number of jobs in the defence sector, contributing to the government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative.
Future Plans and Indigenous Development
India plans to install a large number of radars along its borders in phases. The next phase of radar acquisition will focus on completely indigenous solutions, further strengthening the country’s surveillance capabilities.
Focus on Indigenous Projects
The approval of these projects reflects the Narendra Modi government’s focus on indigenous defence manufacturing. The government is expected to clear more made-in-India acquisitions in the Defence Acquisition Council and other levels in the near future.
Indian Navy’s BrahMos Missile Acquisition
In addition to the Air Force projects, the CCS has also cleared a significant project for the Indian Navy. The Navy will acquire over 200 BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, valued at over Rs 19,000 crore. This decision aligns with the government’s emphasis on consolidated acquisitions of indigenous defence equipment.
The approval of these projects signifies a significant step towards enhancing India’s defence capabilities through indigenous manufacturing. These acquisitions will not only strengthen the armed forces but also boost the country’s self-reliance in defence production.
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