India is poised to grant initial approval for three major indigenous projects worth approximately Rs. 1.4 trillion (US$ 17 billion). These projects encompass the construction of an additional aircraft carrier, 97 Tejas fighters, and 156 Prachand light combat helicopters.
Scheduled for November 30, 2023, the Defence Acquisitions Council, led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, is expected to initiate the “acceptance of necessity (AoN)” during a meeting. Following AoNs, the procurement process, including tender and commercial negotiations, will proceed. The final approval will be sought from the Cabinet Committee on Security.
One project involves 97 Tejas Mark-1A fighters, costing around Rs. 55,000 crore (US$ 6.59 billion), intended to address the fighter squadron shortfall in the Indian Air Force.
The second project focuses on the indigenous aircraft carrier IAC-2, estimated at Rs. 40,000 crore (US$ 4.79 billion), to be constructed at Cochin Shipyard. This carrier, with a tonnage of 44,000 tonnes, will take 8-10 years to build and aims to fulfill India’s carrier-based aircraft needs.
The third project entails 156 Prachand helicopters, costing Rs. 45,000 crore (US$ 5.39 billion), designed for offensive operations in high-altitude regions. These helicopters will enhance the existing fleet for areas like eastern Ladakh and Siachen Glacier.
Despite budgetary constraints leading to the use of the electric-propelled IAC-2, these defense initiatives are crucial for bolstering India’s preparedness, especially considering China’s aircraft carrier development and the substantial fleet possessed by the United States.
