DAC Approves Procurement of 26 Rafale Marine Aircraft and Additional Scorpene Submarines: On July 13, 2023, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh, convened and accepted three key proposals targeted at strengthening India’s naval capabilities.
Under the first proposal, the DAC granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for the procurement of 26 Rafale Marine aircraft from the French Government. This procurement will include associated ancillary equipment, weapons, simulators, spares, documentation, crew training, and logistic support for the Indian Navy. An Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) between India and France was used to make the decision to purchase these modern aircraft.
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Procurement of Three Additional Scorpene Submarines
In another major development, the DAC approved the procurement of three additional Scorpene submarines under the Buy (Indian) category. Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) will build these submarines, bolstering India’s indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities. The inclusion of higher indigenous content in the submarines’ construction aligns with India’s vision for self-reliance in defense production.
This procurement not only ensures the Indian Navy’s required force level and operational readiness but also generates substantial employment opportunities within the domestic sector. Additionally, it enables MDL to enhance its expertise and capabilities in submarine construction.
Guidelines for Promoting Indigenous Content
The DAC also endorsed a proposal to establish guidelines that promote indigenous content in all categories of capital acquisition cases. Through indigenous manufacture, this strategic approach intends to create ‘Aatmanirbharta’ (self-reliance) in vital manufacturing technologies and the life-cycle sustenance of defence platforms and equipment.
By encouraging domestic production, these guidelines will contribute to India’s long-term defense preparedness and reduce reliance on foreign imports, while simultaneously boosting the country’s manufacturing sector.
