The Defense Ministry on Tuesday cleared three procurement proposals, including the Helina anti-tank guided missile proposal, at a total cost of Rs 4,276 crore to strengthen the combat capabilities of the armed forces along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China. The procurement proposals were cleared by the Defense Acquisition Council (DAC) headed by Defense Minister Rajnath Singh.
The DAC, which is the highest acquisition decision-making body of the Ministry of Defence, also authorized the purchase of a series of VSHORAD missiles to strengthen the air defense system along the LAC. While two of the procurement proposals were for the Army, the third was for the Indian Navy.
The Ministry of Defense said the DAC has granted approval of necessity (AoN) for three proposals for capital acquisition of Rs 4,276 crore. DAC has awarded an AoN for the procurement of Helina anti-tank guided missiles, launchers and related support equipment to be integrated into the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH).
This missile is an essential part of the ALH weaponry to combat enemy threats. The ministry said in a statement “His induction will enhance the offensive capabilities of the Indian Army”.
It said that the DAC has also awarded the AoN for the purchase of the VSHORAD missile system designed and developed by the DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation).
Ministry says “Given recent developments along the northern borders, there is a need to focus on effective air defense (AD) weapon systems that are portable and can be rapidly deployed in rugged terrain and maritime areas, approved the procurement of Brahmos launcher and fire control system (FCS) for Shivalik class ships and New Generation Missile Vessels (NGMV) for the Indian Navy”.
The ministry said that the acquisition of VSHORAD as a robust and rapidly deployable system will strengthen air defense capabilities.
Ministry says “Thanks to their induction, these ships would have an increased ability to conduct maritime strike operations, intercept and destroy enemy warships and merchant vessels”.
India is strengthening its overall combat capability along the LAC with respect to the landmark on the eastern border of Ladakh. Last month, the defense ministry approved the purchase of a number of military platforms and weapons, including light tanks, anti-ship missiles and long-range guided bombs at a cost of Rs 84,328 crore.
By: Vaishali Verma
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