Rs 2.38 lakh cr-defence push: DAC clears 5 S-400 missile systems from Russia, transport aircraft
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Context
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for various defence proposals valued at approximately Rs 2.38 lakh crore. Key acquisitions include five additional S-400 long-range surface-to-air missile systems from Russia, medium transport aircraft for the IAF, and several indigenous systems for the Army. This decision follows a period of heightened military activity, including the reported successful use of the S-400 system during 'Operation Sindoor' in May 2025.
UPSC Perspectives
Governance & Defence Procurement
This decision highlights the central role of the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), the highest decision-making body for capital procurements in the Ministry of Defence, chaired by the Raksha Mantri. The process is initiated by granting an Acceptance of Necessity (AoN), which formally accepts the military's need for the equipment and begins the multi-stage procurement cycle under the Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP). Granting AoN, however, does not guarantee a final order, as it must be followed by steps like issuing a Request for Proposal (RFP), trials, and negotiations. The scale of these approvals, amounting to Rs 6.73 lakh crore in FY 2025-26, demonstrates a significant push to accelerate defence modernization and address procedural delays that have historically affected India's defence preparedness. For UPSC, it is crucial to understand the structure of the DAC, the stages of defence procurement (AoN to contract), and its function in balancing strategic needs with financial prudence and policy goals like indigenization.
Strategic & Geopolitical
The procurement of five additional S-400 Triumf systems is a major strategic development. This long-range air defence system, with a reported capability to engage targets up to 400 km, creates a robust air defence bubble against hostile aircraft, cruise missiles, and drones, crucial given India's two-front security challenge. The system's effectiveness was reportedly proven during 'Operation Sindoor' in May 2025, when it was used to down Pakistani aircraft. This expansion strengthens the India-Russia strategic partnership. Simultaneously, the contract for depot-level maintenance of the long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft with a subsidiary of US-based Boeing showcases India's strategy of multi-alignment, balancing its defence relationships with different global powers to acquire top-tier technology. The P-8I is critical for Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) and maritime surveillance in the Indian Ocean. A potential Mains question could be on how India's defence procurement reflects its policy of strategic autonomy.
Economic & 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat'
Beyond imports, these approvals significantly boost the Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative in defence. The procurement of the indigenous Dhanush gun system is a prime example. Developed by the Ordnance Factory Board (now part of Advanced Weapons and Equipment India Ltd.), the Dhanush is a 155mm towed howitzer that represents a success story for Indian manufacturing, upgrading on the original Bofors design. Similarly, the development of a remotely piloted strike aircraft is being undertaken by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The contract for maintenance of the fleet, signed under the 'Buy Indian' category, aims to develop an in-country Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) ecosystem, reducing foreign dependency and building domestic capabilities. UPSC aspirants should focus on the different procurement categories under the DAP, like 'Buy (Indian-IDDM)' and 'Buy (Indian)', and how they are used as policy tools to foster a self-reliant defence industrial base.