From Spy Planes to Su‑30 MKI Upgrades: DAC Readies Major Modernisation Move

India’s top defence body is preparing a sweeping push to strengthen surveillance, air defence, and maritime readiness in the wake of Operation Sindoor.

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, is set to clear a new tranche of capital procurement proposals for the three armed forces estimated to exceed Rs 1 lakh crore.

The DAC is the top decision-making body within India’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) for capital procurement and policy formulation related to the Indian Armed Forces. Established in 2001 following the Kargil War, the DAC was created to streamline and expedite the defence acquisition process.

This marks the first major DAC session since Operation Sindoor began, and reflects the government’s intent to rapidly bolster national security infrastructure amid evolving challenges, as per reports.

What new systems are being sought for the Indian Army?

A proposal is on the agenda for inducting DRDO-developed Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missiles (QRSAM). These mobile air defence systems are designed to neutralise low-flying aerial threats within a 30 km range and would fill a critical gap in India’s layered defence network.

What is the Indian Air Force looking to acquire?

The IAF is aiming to procure three Intelligence, Surveillance, Targeting and Reconnaissance (I-STAR) aircraft. These will be sourced from international vendors and then indigenously configured by DRDO’s Centre for Airborne Systems in collaboration with Indian private firms. The aircraft will significantly improve the Air Force’s targeting accuracy and real-time battlefield visibility.

The DAC is also likely to review an earlier decision in-principle to upgrade 84 Su-30MKI fighter jets. The modernisation package includes enhanced avionics, weapons, and electronic warfare systems to extend the operational life and capability of the fleet.

What are the proposals from the Indian Navy?

The Navy has pitched for the induction of pressure-activated sea mines developed by DRDO, intended to target enemy submarines and surface vessels in strategic waters. In addition, a proposal to acquire unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) is under consideration. These autonomous platforms would improve India’s surveillance and combat edge below the surface.