214 MM Pinaka Multiple Launch Missile System. File | Photo credit: The Hindu
The Defense Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, on Monday (December 29, 2025) approved consent of necessity (AoN) for proposals to raise capital of about ₹79,000 crore from the Army, Navy and Air Force.
According to the Ministry of Defence, the DAC has approved the procurement of Loiter Munitions Systems for Artillery Regiments, Low-Level Light Radars, Long Range Missile Munitions for the Pinaka Multiple Launch Rocket System (MRLS) and Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction System (IDD&IS) Mk-II for the Indian Army.
Loiter Munition Systems will enable precision strikes against tactical targets, while low-level lightweight radars will improve detection and tracking of small, low-flying unmanned aerial systems. Long-range guided missiles will greatly improve the range and accuracy of the Pinaka MRLS, enabling effective engagements on high-value targets. The extended-range IDD&IS Mk-II will enhance the protection of vital assets in tactical combat areas and inland, the Defense Ministry said.
For the Indian Navy, the AoN was awarded for procurement of Bollard Pull (BP) Tugs, Manpack High Frequency Software Defined Radio (HF SDR) systems and High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) leasing. The BP tugs will assist naval vessels and submarines during anchoring, decommissioning and maneuvering in confined harbor waters. The HF SDR Manpack will enhance secure long-range communications during embarkation and landing operations, while the HALE RPAS will provide sustained intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance and enhance maritime domain awareness throughout the Indian Ocean region.
For the Indian Air Force, DAC has approved AoN for procurement of Automatic Takeoff and Landing Recording System, Astra Mk-II Air-to-Air beyond visual range missiles, full mission simulators and long range SPICE-1000 guidance kits.
The automatic takeoff and landing recording system will increase aviation safety by enabling automatic recording of takeoff and landing phases in high resolution in all weather conditions. The extended-range Astra Mk-II missiles will enhance the ability of IAF fighter jets to engage enemy targets at greater distances.
The Full Mission Simulator for the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft will enhance pilot training in a cost-effective and secure environment, while the SPICE-1000 kits will enhance the IAF’s long-range precision strike capability.
Published – 29 Dec 2025 23:10 IST
