Govt Approves Purchase Of Anti-Tank Missiles, Air Defence Weapons Worth Rs 4,276 Crore

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) on Tuesday, January 10, approved three capital acquisition proposals totaling Rs 4,276 crore for the purchase of indigenous Helina anti-tank missiles and air defense systems that will be developed for the purpose of destroying aircraft of adversaries.

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh presided over a meeting of the DAC. The statement from the Ministry of Defense said that two of these three proposals are from the Indian Army and one is from the Indian Navy. The proposals are categorized as Buy (Indian-IDDM).

"The DAC accorded AoN for procurement of Helina anti-tank guided missiles, launchers and associated support equipment which will be integrated to the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH)," it said.

The Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), which will incorporate HELINA Anti-Tank Guided Missiles, launchers, and supporting equipment, was granted AoN by the DAC. "In order to combat the threat posed by the adversary, this missile is an essential component of ALH's weaponization," the Ministry said.

According to a statement issued by the Defense Ministry, its introduction will enhance the Indian Army's offensive capabilities.

Additionally, the DAC approved the acquisition of the VSHORAD (IR Homing) missile system, which is being developed by the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO).

Further, the DAC approved the acquisition of Brahmos Launchers, a Fire Control System (FCS), and Next Generation Missile Vessels (NGMVs) for the Indian Navy. According to the statement, these ships would have enhanced capability of conducting maritime strike operations, interdicting and destroying merchant vessels and warships of the enemy, upon their induction.