Latest news with #AcceptanceofNecessity
The Print
08-07-2025
- Business
- The Print
India to acquire 5th-gen fighters as interim solution? Defence secy says talks with partners are ongoing
'As far as our steps in this regard are concerned, we are talking to our partners on the fifth-generation fighter aircraft programme. As of now, those discussions have not reached a stage where we can start sharing this with the media,' Singh said Monday. 'I don't think we can do a blow-by-blow accounting of what we're doing in these matters. These are sensitive negotiations. When they reach a tangible stage, be it an Acceptance of Necessity (AoN), an RFP, or a final contract, that is when the media will come to know.' Responding to questions about reports that Pakistan may soon induct Chinese fifth-generation fighters and speculation around India's interest in platforms like the Russian Su-57E and American F-35 during an interview with CNBC-TV18, Singh said that conversations with global partners are ongoing but remain at a preliminary stage. New Delhi: Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh has confirmed that India is in talks with key allies and partners to explore the possibility of acquiring fifth-generation fighter aircraft as an interim solution, even as the indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programme, projected to take around 10 years, moves forward. When asked if this meant India would continue with the AMCA programme while simultaneously speaking to key allies and partners to see if there can be a solution found on getting fifth gen fighters in a shorter period of time, Singh replied, 'You could say that, without getting into too many specifics. As I said, these things need to be done outside the media gaze.' Both Russia and the US have publicly signaled their willingness to offer fifth-generation fighter platforms to India. While Russia has reportedly offered full technology transfer and co-production of the Su-57 in collaboration with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the US has indicated openness to discussions around the F-35. Notably, when Trump and Modi met in the US this February, the US president had publicly backed the potential sale of F-35 fifth-generation stealth fighters to India. However, the joint statement issued by the countries after the meeting did not specifically mention the aircraft. Instead, it noted that 'the leaders pledged to accelerate defense technology cooperation across space, air defense, missile, maritime and undersea technologies,' adding that the US would review its policy on releasing fifth-generation fighters and undersea systems to India. Further, when asked how India viewed Russia's reported offer of full technology transfer and co-production of Su-57 fighters with HAL, especially given that the country already operates a Sukhoi production line, Singh said, 'I've already made it clear that I won't be offering a running commentary on what we're doing. We'll move forward, and when decisions are taken, you'll come to know.' Pressed further on whether formal proposals had been received from either the US or Russia, Singh responded, 'I don't know, frankly, because some of this would take place at the service level. But again, I mean, let's leave this topic.' On the indigenous AMCA project, Singh said the process had moved into early procurement stages. 'EOI (Expression of Interest) and the RFI (Request for Information) has been issued by ADA or Aeronautical Development Agency, and I think they've had some preliminary rounds of discussions with prospective bidders,' he said. 'I would imagine it'll take something between three to six months to, you know, reach the contract award stage. Thereafter, the project itself of development and of AMCA prototypes, you know, actually taking to the skies, it should be about a 10-year programme.' The AMCA programme moved into a new phase in May when the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) formally approved the execution model for the indigenous fifth-generation stealth fighter. The government greenlit the development of AMCA prototypes under a competitive framework that, for the first time, allows both public and private Indian firms to bid for the contract. The project will be overseen by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), with HAL no longer guaranteed the lead role. An Expression of Interest (EOI) was issued last month to shortlist technically capable Indian companies or consortia to co-develop the prototypes, support flight testing and assist with certification. The AMCA is a fifth gen twin-engine, all-weather stealth fighter designed for air superiority, deep strike and electronic warfare missions. However, given its extended development timeline as estimated at around 10 years, according to the defence secretary, the government is simultaneously exploring interim fifth-generation fighter solutions in collaboration with key international partners. This also comes amid the Indian Air Force's pressing need to address its declining squadron strength, which stands at just 31 against a sanctioned strength of 42.5 squadrons. (Edited by Tony Rai) Also Read: 'No Rafale shot down in combat, India lost one to technical malfunction, probe on': Dassault CEO
News18
04-07-2025
- Business
- News18
HAL, BEML, Bharat Dynamics, Other Defence Stocks Rally As Govt Approves Rs 1.05 Lakh Cr Orders
Shares of defence companies, including Paras Defence, BEML, HAL, and Bharat Electronics, surged on Friday; Key points for investors Defence Stocks Rally: Shares of defence companies, including Paras Defence, BEML, Hindustan Aeronautics, and Bharat Electronics, surged on Friday after the government approved fresh defence equipment purchases worth Rs 1.05 lakh crore. The move boosted investor sentiment, pushing the Nifty India Defence index up by 1.4%. Paras Defence and Space Technologies led the gains, soaring 8%, while other notable performers included Mishra Dhatu Nigam, Astra Microwave Products, BEML, Unimech Aerospace and Manufacturing, Cochin Shipyard, Bharat Dynamics, Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers, Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders, and BEL — all rising between 1% and 2%. The rally followed the Defence Acquisition Council's (DAC) approval on Thursday of 10 capital acquisition proposals, all of which will be sourced indigenously through Indian vendors. The initiative underscores the government's continued focus on boosting domestic defence manufacturing and self-reliance. The Ministry of Defence has granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for a wide range of defence equipment as part of its fresh procurement drive. This includes the acquisition of Armoured Recovery Vehicles, advanced Electronic Warfare Systems, an Integrated Common Inventory Management System for the Tri-Services, and Surface-to-Air Missiles for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. Defence stocks have witnessed a sharp upward trajectory in recent months, spurred by the government's strategic push to boost self-reliance in defence manufacturing. The emphasis on indigenous production and domestic innovation has created strong investor interest in companies operating in this space. Among the key beneficiaries of the government's latest ₹1.05 lakh crore defence procurement approvals, analysts point to several companies with high growth potential. Bharat Dynamics is expected to benefit significantly due to its leadership in missile manufacturing. Bharat Electronics stands out for its expertise in radar systems and electronic warfare solutions. Cochin Shipyard is likely to gain from new orders related to underwater and autonomous vessels, while Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders could see tailwinds from its ongoing work on destroyers and mine countermeasure vessels. Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers may benefit from anticipated contracts for patrol vessels. Other potential winners include Paras Defence & Space Technologies, Data Patterns, and Astra Microwave Products. These firms are strategically positioned to capture niche opportunities within India's fast-evolving and increasingly self-sufficient defence ecosystem. First Published:
Economic Times
03-07-2025
- Business
- Economic Times
Defence Acquisition Council clears 10 capital acquisition proposals worth over Rs 1.05 lakh cr
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Synopsis The Defence Acquisition Council approved Acceptance of Necessity for 10 capital acquisition proposals worth Rs 1.05 lakh crore, prioritizing indigenous defence manufacturing. Approvals include Armoured Recovery Vehicles, Electronic Warfare Systems, and Surface-to-Air Missiles to enhance mobility and air defence. The DAC also cleared procurement for the Navy, strengthening maritime safety through indigenously developed systems. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, on Thursday approved Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for 10 capital acquisition proposals worth approximately Rs 1.05 lakh crore. All proposals have been cleared under the 'Buy (Indian-IDDM)' category to promote domestic defence manufacturing. ADVERTISEMENT According to the Ministry of Defence (MoD), the approvals include procurement of Armoured Recovery Vehicles, Electronic Warfare Systems, Integrated Common Inventory Management Systems for the Tri-Services, and Surface-to-Air Missiles. These acquisitions are aimed at enhancing mobility, air defence capabilities, and improving logistical efficiency for the Armed Forces. The DAC has also given nod to the procurement of Moored Mines, Mine Counter Measure Vessels, Super Rapid Gun Mounts, and Submersible Autonomous Vessels for the Navy. These systems are expected to strengthen maritime safety by reducing threats to naval and merchant vessels. The ministry stated that the decision aligns with the government's focus on indigenisation and self-reliance in the defence sector. All proposals have been cleared under the Buy (Indian–Indigenously Designed Developed and Manufactured) category, ensuring involvement of Indian vendors and encouraging development within the domestic defence ecosystem. (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel) (Catch all the Business News, Breaking News, Budget 2025 Events and Latest News Updates on The Economic Times.) Subscribe to The Economic Times Prime and read the ET ePaper online. NEXT STORY
