DAC clears ₹54,000 cr defence acquisitions; CCS approves ₹7,000 crore ATAGS deal

As part of the government's initiative to mark 2025 as the ‘Year of Reforms,’ the DAC also sanctioned guidelines aimed at expediting various stages of the Capital Acquisition Process, making procurement faster and more efficient.

Upgrades for T-90 Tanks

For the Indian Army, the council granted AoN for the procurement of 1,350 HP engines to replace the current 1,000 HP engines in T-90 tanks. This upgrade is expected to enhance battlefield mobility, particularly in high-altitude areas, by improving the power-to-weight ratio of the tanks.

Navy to acquire Varunastra torpedoes

To bolster anti-submarine warfare capabilities, the DAC approved the procurement of Varunastra torpedoes, an indigenously developed ship-launched anti-submarine torpedo by the Naval Science & Technological Laboratory.

These torpedoes are set to strengthen the Navy’s ability to counter submarine threats.

Additionally, the DAC approved the acquisition of Airborne Early Warning & Control (AEW&C) Aircraft Systems for the Indian Air Force.

These systems are expected to significantly enhance surveillance and combat capabilities, transforming the battlefield dynamics and boosting the effectiveness of other weapon systems.

CCS clears ₹7,000 cr ATAGS deal

In another major development, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved a ₹7,000 crore deal for the procurement of the advanced towed artillery gun system (ATAGS) for the Army.

ATAGS is the first indigenously designed, developed, and manufactured 155 mm artillery gun system. Its induction marks a major step in strengthening India’s self-reliance in artillery systems and will significantly enhance the Army’s firepower.