In a significant stride towards achieving self-reliance in defence production and bolstering the Make-in-India initiative, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) today inked five major capital acquisition defence contracts worth Rs 39,125.39 crore in New Delhi.
The contracts, exchanged in the presence of Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh and Defence Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane, underscore India’s commitment to enhancing indigenous capabilities and reducing dependency on foreign-origin equipment manufacturers.
Among the five contracts, one was signed with M/s Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the procurement of Aero-engines for MiG-29 aircraft, while two contracts were awarded to M/s Larsen & Toubro Limited for the acquisition of Close-in Weapon System (CIWS) and High-Power Radar (HPR).
Additionally, two contracts were signed with M/s BrahMos Aerospace Private Limited (BAPL) for the procurement of BrahMos missiles and Shipborne BrahMos systems for the Indian Defence Forces.
The contract for RD-33 Aero Engines for MiG-29 aircraft, valued at Rs 5,249.72 crore, will be executed by HAL’s Koraput Division. These aero engines, produced under Transfer of Technology (TOT) license from the Russian OEM, will bolster the operational capability of the Indian Air Force (IAF) MiG-29 fleet and enhance indigenous content in future Repair and Overhaul (ROH) tasks.
The procurement of CIWS, valued at Rs 7,668.82 crore, and HPR, valued at Rs 5,700.13 crore, from Larsen & Toubro Limited will significantly enhance India’s air defence capabilities.
The projects will stimulate the active participation of Indian aerospace, defence, and associated industries, generating substantial employment opportunities over the next five years.
The contracts with BrahMos Aerospace Private Limited (BAPL), amounting to Rs 19,518.65 crore for BrahMos missiles and Rs 988.07 crore for Shipborne BrahMos systems, highlight India’s focus on bolstering its maritime strike capabilities. These systems, integrated with frontline warships of the Indian Navy, will enhance India’s naval firepower and combat readiness.
Speaking on the occasion, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized the significance of these contracts in fostering indigenous manufacturing and technological innovation in the defence sector.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to promoting ‘Aatmanirbharta in Defence’ and hailed the contracts as a testament to India’s growing self-reliance and prowess in defence production.
The signing of these contracts marks a decisive step towards achieving self-sufficiency in defence production and underscores India’s determination to emerge as a global leader in defence innovation and manufacturing.
As the contracts pave the way for enhanced operational capabilities and technological advancements, they reaffirm India’s commitment to securing its borders and safeguarding its national interests.
