NEW DELHI: Defence ministry on Tuesday gave its preliminary approval for five military modernisation projects worth Rs 21,772 crore, which include fast attack crafts for Navy, electronic warfare suites for Sukhoi-30MKI fighters of IAF and helicopters for Coast Guard.
The Rajnath Singh-led defence acquisitions council (DAC) granted the acceptance of necessity (AoN) for the procurement of 31 new water-jet fast attack crafts. “These vessels will perform low-intensity maritime operations, surveillance, patrol, and search and rescue missions close to the coast. In addition, they will play an effective role in anti-piracy missions, especially in and around our island territories,” an official said.
DAC also accorded AoN for procurement of 120 fast-interceptor crafts, which will be capable of performing multiple roles, including escorting frontline warships and submarines near the coast.
The Sukhoi-30MKI jets, in turn, will get electronic warfare suites with external airborne self-protection jammer pods, next-generation radar warning receivers and associated equipment. “They will enhance the fighters’ operational capabilities and protect them from enemy radars and related air defence weapon systems while carrying out missions,” the official said.
Six advanced light helicopters were also cleared for Coast Guard to strengthen surveillance and security in coastal areas. ” DAC also approved proposals for the overhaul of T-72 and T-90 main-battle tanks, BMPs (infantry combat vehicles) and engines of Sukhoi fighters, which will enhance the service life of these assets,” he added.