India defence procurement and indigenous manufacturing

India’s Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has initiated large-scale procurement drives aimed at modernizing the Army, Navy, and Air Force while prioritizing indigenous manufacturing.

Initial approvals totaling approximately Rs 1.1 lakh crore focused on various platforms, including CBRN Recce Vehicles, High Mobility Vehicles, and Advanced Light Helicopters for the Army. The Navy sought to acquire Arudhra Radars and Marine Gas Turbines, while the Air Force targeted new jamming systems and secure access technology. During this phase, TATA Advanced Systems emerged as the lowest bidder for the Rs 20,000 crore Project Zorawar light tank program.

Subsequent approvals for the 2025-26 fiscal year significantly increased the scale of procurement to approximately Rs 6.73 lakh crore. This expanded scope includes the Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile (QRSAM-I) system, indigenous 1,350 HP engines for T-90 tanks, and the Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction System Mk-II. Naval and Air Force requirements also expanded to include mine countermeasure vessels, landing platform docks, the Netra AEW&C Mk-1A airborne early warning system, and MALE remotely piloted aircraft. Throughout these developments, approximately 98 per cent of the procurement value remains directed toward the Indian sector to reduce foreign dependency.