India’s Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh, convened on July 13, 2023, and greenlit three noteworthy proposals to reinforce the country’s naval capabilities. The first proposal entailed the acceptance of the necessity (AoN) for the procurement of 26 Rafale Marine aircraft from the French Government. This acquisition will include associated ancillary equipment, weapons, simulators, spares, documentation, crew training, and logistic support for the Indian Navy. The decision to acquire these advanced aircraft was made under an Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) between India and France.
In another significant development, the DAC approved the procurement of three additional Scorpene submarines under the Buy (Indian) category. These submarines will be constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), further strengthening India’s indigenous defense manufacturing capabilities. The inclusion of higher indigenous content in the submarines’ construction aligns with India’s vision for self-reliance in defense production.
Apart from bolstering naval capabilities, this procurement will also lead to substantial employment opportunities within the domestic sector and enable MDL to enhance its expertise and capabilities in submarine construction.
Furthermore, the DAC endorsed a proposal to establish guidelines that promote indigenous content in all categories of capital acquisition cases. This strategic move aims to foster ‘Aatmanirbharta’ (self-reliance) in critical manufacturing technologies and the life-cycle sustenance of defense platforms and equipment through indigenous manufacturing.
By encouraging domestic production, these guidelines will contribute to India’s long-term defense preparedness and reduce reliance on foreign imports, while simultaneously boosting the country’s manufacturing sector. The approved proposals reflect the Indian government’s commitment to strengthening national security, promoting indigenous defense capabilities, and fostering self-sufficiency in defense production.