The government has approved defense deals worth about Rs 1 lakh 45 thousand crore to increase the capacity and modernization of the armed forces. This decision was taken on Tuesday under the chairmanship of Defense Minister Rajnath Singh. The Defense Purchase Council approved 10 capital purchase proposals worth Rs 1 lakh 44 thousand 716 crore. 99 percent of the total cost of these deals will be of the category designed, developed and manufactured in the country itself. These also include a proposal to purchase Future Ready Combat Vehicles (FRCV) for the modernization of the army’s tank fleet. FRCV is a main battle tank equipped with better mobility, ability to work in all terrains, multi-layered protection, accurate and lethal fire control equipment.
The Council has also approved the procurement of Air Defence Fire Control Radar, which will detect aerial targets. Also, it will be capable of tracking as well as firing. A proposal has also been approved to procure Forward Repair Team which has suitable cross country mobility to carry out in-situ repairs during mechanised operations. This equipment has been designed and developed by Armoured Vehicles Corporation Limited. It has been approved for both Mechanised Infantry Battalion and Armoured Regiment.
3 proposals related to purchase were approved in the meeting
To enhance the capabilities of the Indian Coast Guard, 3 proposals for procurement have been approved on the basis of needs. Dornier-228 aircraft are capable of flying in bad weather conditions. Also, next generation offshore patrol vessels with high-speed and advanced technology and long-range operations will be procured. This will strengthen the Coast Guard’s ability to conduct surveillance, patrolling, search and rescue and disaster relief operations.
Late Director General of Coast Guard Rakesh Pal remembered
At the end of the meeting, the Defence Minister remembered the late Director General of the Indian Coast Guard, Rakesh Pal, who was also a member of the Acquisition Council. Pal passed away on 18 August last in Chennai due to a sudden heart attack. The Defence Minister highlighted the remarkable contribution of Director General Rakesh Pal in the development and expansion of the Coast Guard. He expressed heartfelt condolences, prayers and unwavering support of the Ministry of Defence to the bereaved family. All the members of the Council stood up and observed a minute’s silence in his honour.
(With agency input)