From Spy Jets To Minesweepers: Inside India's Rs 1 Lakh Crore Defence Push

News18

8 hours ago

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India shifts focus to homegrown defence technologies, greenlighting Rs 1,00,000 crore for indigenous mine vessels, QRSAM, and ISTAR spy aircraft
In a bold and strategic shift, India has greenlit a massive defence procurement plan focused entirely on homegrown technologies instead of foreign fifth-generation fighter jets like the US F-35, French Rafale variants, or Russia's S-500 air defence system. Buoyed by the global spotlight on indigenous capabilities after Operation Sindoor, the government's decision signals a major pivot in India's military modernisation policy, emphasising self-reliance over imports.
Indian defence products, especially the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile and the Akash surface-to-air missile system, earned global praise following their performance in Operation Sindoor, India's military offensive against terror camps in Pakistan. The operation showcased India's evolving battlefield prowess and technological sophistication, prompting speculation about major new arms deals with foreign nations.
However, the Modi government has made it clear that the future lies in indigenous defence innovation. In a landmark move, the Defence Acquisition Council has cleared three major military purchases and seven other deals, all designed, developed, and manufactured in India. These include next-generation spy planes, mine-sweeping vessels, and mobile missile defence systems.
Rs 44,000 Crore For Homegrown Mine Vessels
Among the most significant approvals is the procurement of 12 indigenous Mine Countermeasure Vessels (MCMVs), with an estimated outlay of Rs 44,000 crore. These 900-1,000-tonne specialised warships are designed to neutralise underwater mines that pose threats to naval operations, especially in wartime scenarios where enemy nations may attempt to blockade ports or shipping routes.
Indian Navy currently relies on basic 'clip-on" mine detection systems attached to existing vessels. With the induction of purpose-built mine sweepers, India's warships and submarines will be shielded more effectively. These vessels will serve as a frontline defence, securing maritime corridors from stealthy threats, a critical move given India's long coastline and the deepening China-Pakistan naval nexus in the Indian Ocean.
Rs 36,000 Crore For QRSAM To Fortify Air Defence
The government has also approved the acquisition of Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missiles (QRSAM) worth Rs 36,000 crore. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), these mobile missile batteries are designed to neutralise enemy aircraft, helicopters, and drones within a 30 km radius.
Three squadrons each will be provided to the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force initially. The Army has projected the need for 11 full regiments. These missiles, easily transportable across varied terrains, will plug critical gaps in India's multi-layered air defence network, which already includes the S-400 and Akash systems.
Rs 10,000 Crore For ISTAR Spy Aircraft
India is also stepping up its electronic warfare and surveillance game with the approval to purchase three ISTAR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance) aircraft. At a cost of Rs 10,000 crore, these advanced aircrafts will significantly enhance India's ability to peer deep into enemy territory.
Designed with indigenous sensors and systems, including synthetic aperture radar, infrared sensors, and electro-optical payloads, these aircraft are capable of detecting and tracking even the subtlest movements. Developed in collaboration with DRDO, they are expected to boost precision targeting for both fighter jets and missiles in hostile environments.
Self-Reliance Over Imports
This aggressive push toward indigenization comes even as other global powers continue to sell fifth-generation fighter jets and next-gen missile defense systems. While India has already inducted French Rafale jets and Russian S-400s, officials say the focus now is on creating a self-sustaining defense ecosystem.
Sources within the Ministry of Defence confirm that India's own 5th generation fighter project, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), is progressing rapidly, with prototypes expected in the next few years. By opting out of immediate foreign acquisitions, India is signaling confidence in its domestic capabilities and a long-term strategy to emerge as a global defence exporter.