Defence Ministry Poised to Greenlight Rs 1 Lakh Crore Military Modernisation Plan

India's Defence Ministry is preparing to sanction defence contracts exceeding Rs 1 lakh crore, marking a major push to strengthen the nation's military arsenals across multiple domains. The proposed acquisitions represent a comprehensive modernisation strategy targeting ground, air, and air defence capabilities, with final approvals expected imminently.

The procurement package includes 300 K-9 Vajra self-propelled howitzers for the Indian Army, enhancing its artillery firepower significantly. Additionally, the military will acquire 600 HAMMER missiles designed for fighter jet platforms, bolstering air-to-ground strike capabilities. To reinforce aerial defence infrastructure, the Army plans to induct Russian Verba air defence systems, creating a multi-layered protection shield against airborne threats.

This substantial investment underscores India's commitment to modernising its defence infrastructure amid evolving regional security challenges. The Defence Acquisition Council meeting, which will deliberate on these proposals, will mark a historic moment with all key defence leadership attending together for the first time, reflecting the strategic importance of these decisions.

The approved contracts would significantly enhance India's operational readiness and technological edge. The howitzer procurement strengthens artillery strike capabilities, while the HAMMER missiles extend the lethal range of air operations. The Verba systems integration addresses critical air defence gaps, particularly against low-altitude aerial threats.

These acquisitions align with India's broader defence modernisation roadmap, ensuring armed forces remain equipped with contemporary weaponry. The simultaneous approval of multiple critical systems demonstrates a consolidated procurement strategy rather than incremental upgrades, accelerating the force multiplication timeline considerably.

Source: Times of India