Defence Ministry Approves ₹1.44 Lakh Crore for Army Modernisation, New Combat Vehicles

New Delhi: The Defence Ministry has approved the procurement of Future Ready Combat Vehicles (FRCVs) to modernise the Indian Army’s tank fleet, along with air defence fire control radars, as part of a significant modernisation drive. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, cleared 10 capital acquisition proposals worth ₹1,44,716 crore on Tuesday.

According to the Ministry, 99% of the approved funds are allocated for purchases from indigenous sources under the “Buy (Indian)” and “Buy (Indian-Indigenously Designed Developed and Manufactured)” categories.

The FRCVs, designed as advanced main battle tanks, will feature enhanced mobility, all-terrain capability, multi-layered protection, precise targeting and real-time situational awareness.

The DAC also approved the procurement of air defence fire control radars, which will enhance the Army’s capability to detect, track, and neutralise aerial threats. Additionally, an AoN was granted for the Forward Repair Team (Tracked) equipment, developed by Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited, to facilitate on-site repairs during mechanised operations.

Three additional approvals were granted to bolster the Indian Coast Guard’s (ICG) capabilities, including the acquisition of Dornier-228 aircraft, next-generation fast patrol vessels, and offshore patrol vessels. These assets will strengthen the ICG’s maritime surveillance, patrolling, search-and-rescue and disaster-relief operations.