The Indian government on Tuesday approved defence deals worth nearly ₹67,000 crore to strengthen the country's armed forces. These include buying advanced military equipment like long-range drones, mountain radars, and signing a maintenance deal for the Russian-made S-400 missile systems, a key asset during Operation Sindoor.

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, cleared the proposals during a high-level meeting.

According to the defence ministry, the council gave the green signal for the procurement of Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft or drones for the Army, Navy, and Air Force. These drones can carry multiple weapons and stay in the air for a long time.

"They will significantly enhance round-the-clock surveillance and combat capability of the armed forces," the ministry said.

The Indian Air Force will also receive mountain radars to boost air monitoring near border areas. These radars will help spot flying threats more easily in hilly regions.

For the Indian Navy, the council cleared the purchase of compact autonomous surface crafts, which are small robotic boats. These can help detect and destroy underwater threats like enemy submarines.

The Navy will also upgrade its BARAK-1 missile system and get new BrahMos missile launchers and fire control systems, the statement said.

The DAC also approved an upgrade of the Saksham/Spyder air defence system for the Air Force. This upgrade will link the system with India's central air command system, making it easier to track and stop incoming threats.

Two important aircraft fleets, the C-17 and C-130J transport planes, will get funding for upkeep and repairs under a new sustenance programme.

For the Indian Army, the council gave the nod to buy thermal night-sight devices for BMP infantry combat vehicles. These will help soldiers drive and operate better in the dark.

The DAC also approved a comprehensive annual maintenance contract for the Russian-origin S-400 long-range missile system. This missile system has been a big part of India’s air defence and played an important role during Operation Sindoor.

In total, the government approved several deals and upgrades across all three services, the Army, Navy, and Air Force, to modernise India’s defence and improve its readiness.

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