India Approves Rs 79,000 Crore Military Modernization Plan for Army, Navy, and Air Force

The Defence Ministry of India has given the green light to a comprehensive military modernization program, clearing capital acquisition proposals worth Rs 79,000 crore to significantly enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The approval came during a meeting of the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, which granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for several critical procurements aimed at boosting technological edge and self-reliance in India's armed forces.

Army Modernization

The Indian Army will see key upgrades with the induction of the Nag Missile System (Tracked) Mk-II (NAMIS), designed to neutralize enemy tanks, bunkers, and fortifications. The Ground-Based Mobile ELINT System (GBMES) will provide continuous electronic intelligence on adversary communications. Additionally, new High Mobility Vehicles (HMVs) equipped with Material Handling Cranes will improve logistics and mobility across challenging terrains.

Navy Enhancements

The Indian Navy will enhance its amphibious warfare and maritime capabilities with the procurement of Landing Platform Docks (LPDs), supporting joint operations with the Army and Air Force as well as humanitarian and disaster-relief missions. Other upgrades include 30mm Naval Surface Guns and Advanced Lightweight Torpedoes (ALWT) to strengthen anti-submarine and anti-piracy capabilities. The Navy will also acquire Electro-Optical Infra-Red Search and Track Systems and Smart Ammunition, improving surveillance, targeting, and rapid response operations, including for the Coast Guard.

Air Force Upgrades

The Indian Air Force will deploy the Collaborative Long Range Target Saturation/Destruction System (CLRTS/DS), an autonomous long-range precision strike platform capable of taking off, navigating, detecting targets, and delivering payloads in complex environments. This system is expected to significantly enhance the IAF's deep-strike and precision attack capabilities.

Focus on Indigenous Development

The modernization package aligns with the government's Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, emphasizing indigenously designed and developed defense systems. Innovations from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), particularly in naval systems, form a key part of these upgrades.

Strategic Impact

The Rs 79,000 crore package follows a previous major procurement approved in August 2025 worth Rs 67,000 crore, reflecting India's ongoing transformation into a modern, agile, and self-reliant military. Experts say the investment marks one of the largest single boosts to India's defense infrastructure, aimed at rapidly upgrading hardware, advanced technologies, and operational readiness across all branches of the armed forces.