A shot in the arm!

Boost to Indian defence industry as proposals worth Rs.28,732 crores are cleared.

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) cleared an important first step towards buying military equipment worth Rs.28,732 cr, by accepting they were necessary for the forces. The proposals have been cleared under the indigenously designed, developed and manufactured scheme to promote self-reliance. 

The council's meeting was chaired by the Defence Minister and the approvals are expected to provide impetus to the domestic small arms manufacturing industry. They come amid the ongoing stand-off with China along the Line of  Actual Control in Ladakh. 

The list consists of :-

* Bulletproof jackets with Indian Standards BIS VI level of protection were put on the procurement list "considering the demand of enhanced protection against the threat of enemy snipers for our troops deployed along the Line of Control and in close combat operations in counter-terrorism scenario". 

* About 4 lakh close quarters battle carbines for the services for conventional and hybrid warfare and counter terrorism.

* Drones are force multipliers, without doubt, in military operations. Procurement of autonomous surveillance and armed drone swarms.

* 14 Fast Patrol Vessels for the Indian Coast Guard - with 60% Indian content - have been cleared.

* Procurement of upgraded 1,250 KW marine gas turbine generators for power generation on board Kolkota class of ships. 

* Procurement of guided extended range rocket ammunition, area denial munition Type 1 and infantry combat vehicle command - designed and developed by the DRDO. The total value of these three proposals is Rs.8,599 crores.

   

   - the extended range rocket ammo has a range of 75 km with an accuracy of 40 metres.

   - the Type 1 ammo contains dual purpose sub munitions capable of neutralising tanks and

   - armoured personnel carriers.

Courtesy. The NIE.

My take

A tremendous boost for the Indian Defence industry! Bravo Zulu to PM Narendra Modi and his team for taking such a momentous decision! And let India become an exporter of military hardware and ammunition to the needy.

Tailpiece.

Got up at 6, the chores and was ready by 10. 

Lekha and her sister go to the Paambumekkaavu temple, enroute to Mala, around a half past 2 in the afternoon and return by a half past 7.

A quiet evening.