India’s Major War Preparedness: Proposals Worth ₹2.38 Lakh Crore Approved to Boost Defense Capabilities

New Delhi: India is undertaking a massive modernization of its defense equipment. During a meeting held on March 27, 2026, chaired by Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, the Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) was granted for various proposals estimated at a cost of approximately ₹2.38 lakh crore. For the Indian Army, approvals were granted for an Air Defense Track System, Armored Piercing Tank Ammunition, High-Capacity Radio Relays, the Dhanush Gun System, and a Runway Independent Aerial Surveillance System. The Air Defense Track System will provide real-time air defense control and reporting capabilities, while the High-Capacity Radio Relays will ensure reliable and error-free communication.

Dhanush Gun System
The Dhanush Gun System will enhance the Army’s artillery capabilities to engage targets at long ranges across all terrains, thereby boosting both firepower and accuracy. The Runway Independent Aerial Surveillance System (S-400) will provide surveillance capabilities to Army units, while the Armored Piercing Tank Ammunition will augment the lethality of the Army’s anti-tank munitions.

S-400 Missile System
For the Indian Air Force, proposals were approved for the procurement of Medium Transport Aircraft, the S-400 Long-Range Surface-to-Air Missile System, Remotely Piloted Strike Aircraft, and the refurbishment of Su-30 Aero-Engine Aggregates. The induction of Medium Transport Aircraft—intended to replace the existing AN-32 and IL-76 transport fleets—will fulfill the strategic, tactical, and operational air transport requirements of the services.

The S-400 system will counter long-range aerial attacks by adversaries targeting critical areas, while the Remotely Piloted Strike Aircraft will enable the execution of offensive counter-air and coordinated aerial operations, in addition to conducting covert intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) activities. The refurbishment of Su-30 aero-engines and their aggregates will extend the aircraft’s service life and fulfill the operational requirements of the Air Force.

Approval for Heavy-Duty Air Cushion Vehicles
Approval in Principle (AoN) has been granted to the Indian Coast Guard for heavy-duty Air Cushion Vehicles. These vehicles will be utilized for multi-purpose maritime coastal operations, including high-speed coastal patrolling, reconnaissance, search and rescue missions, providing assistance to ships, and logistics—including the transportation of personnel and cargo.

During the financial year 2025-26, the DAC has accorded AoN for 55 proposals worth ₹6.73 lakh crore. Furthermore, in the current financial year, capital acquisition contracts have been signed for 503 proposals amounting to ₹2.28 lakh crore. The volume of AoNs approved and the number of capital contracts signed to date represent the highest figures recorded in any single financial year.