DAC clears Rafale fighter jets and defence buys worth ₹3.6 trillion | External Affairs & Defence Security News
The Defense Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, on Thursday gave in-principle approval for the purchase of various war materiel, including French-made Rafale fighter jets and US-made seaplanes.
A press release from the Ministry of Defense stated that the DAC approved “acceptance of requirement” (a technical term) for proposals from the three services estimated to be worth approximately 3.6 trillion.
Although the number of aircraft and other items were not mentioned in the statement, sources said that the Indian Air Force (IAF) has proposed 114 Rafale jets to increase its fleet strength and the Indian Navy wants six more P-8I seaplanes in addition to its fleet of 12.
The Cabinet Committee on Security makes final decisions on major defense purchases.
DAC has given approval to IAF to purchase multi-role fighter aircraft (MRFA) from French company Dassault Aviation SA. One source estimated the cost of the 114 aircraft at around €30 billion (₹2.70 trillion). It is unknown when the contract will be signed, but French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to India between 17-19 February is expected to provide clarity.
The purchase of the aircraft will enhance its ability to undertake air dominance roles across the conflict spectrum and significantly enhance the IAF’s deterrence capabilities through long-range strike strikes, the statement said. “The majority of the MRFA to be procured will be manufactured in India.”
Speaking earlier, a source stated that technology transfer from France to India and joint facilities in India are expected in the future, adding that indigenous weapons will also be installed on Rafale jets.
The DAC also approved proposals for combat missiles and airship-based high-altitude pseudo-satellites (AS-HAPS), or objects flying high in the stratosphere.
IAF has received approval for storage of French-made long-range air-to-surface Scalp missiles.
Apart from domestic missiles, Scalp was also used in India’s conflict with Pakistan last year.
In the statement, it was stated that “Combat missiles will increase the ability of deep strike power and remote land attack with very high accuracy” and that AS-HAPS will be used for permanent intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, electronic intelligence, telecommunication and remote sensing for military purposes.
DAC accepted Indian Navy’s offer of US-made P-8I long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft. While the US government has earlier authorized the sale of six P-8I aircraft to India, pending trade negotiations will depend on the direction of India-US relations. US President Donald Trump said early last year that he wanted India to purchase billions of dollars worth of US defense goods.
The acquisition of the P-8I aircraft will significantly increase the Navy’s long-range anti-submarine warfare, maritime surveillance and maritime strike capabilities, Thursday’s statement said.
DAC also approved the commissioning of 4 Mw marine gas turbine-based electric power generators under the Make-I category of the Navy’s 2020 Defense Acquisition Procedure to minimize dependence on foreign manufacturers.
Indian Army proposals accepted by the DAC include acquisition of anti-tank mines (Vibhav) and upgrade of armored recovery vehicles (ARVs), T-72 tanks and infantry fighting vehicles (BMP-II).
Vibhav mines will be laid as part of the anti-tank obstacle system to delay the enemy’s advance, the statement said, adding that the overhaul of ARVs, T-72 tanks and BMP-II platforms will ensure operational readiness and effectiveness by extending the service life of the equipment.
DAC also allowed the Indian Coast Guard to purchase systems for Dornier aircraft to improve maritime surveillance.
