 Agencies
NEW DELHI, Mar 1: In a significant stride towards bolstering 'Aatmanirbharta in Defence' and reinforcing the Make-in-India initiative, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) finalized five major capital acquisition contracts amounting to Rs 39,125.39 crore. The contracts, exchanged in the presence of Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh and Defence Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane, mark a pivotal step in enhancing indigenous capabilities and reducing dependency on foreign equipment manufacturers.
Out of the five contracts, one was awarded to M/s Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the procurement of Aero-engines for MiG-29 aircraft, totaling Rs 5,249.72 crore. These engines, to be produced by HAL's Koraput Division under Transfer of Technology (TOT) license, will sustain the operational capability of the Indian Air Force's (IAF) MiG-29 fleet.
Two contracts were secured by M/s Larsen & Toubro Limited, with one valued at Rs 7,668.82 crore for the procurement of Close-in Weapon System (CIWS) and another worth Rs 5,700.13 crore for the acquisition of High-Power Radar (HPR). The CIWS will provide terminal Air Defence to select locations across the country, while the HPR will enhance the terrestrial Air Defence capabilities of IAF with advanced surveillance features.
Additionally, two contracts were signed with M/s BrahMos Aerospace Private Limited (BAPL) for the procurement of BrahMos missiles (Rs 19,518.65 crore) and Ship-borne BrahMos systems (Rs 988.07 crore). These missiles will fulfill combat outfit and training requirements of the Indian Navy, contributing to the nation's maritime strike operations.
The contracts signify a significant boost to indigenous manufacturing capabilities, fostering employment generation and stimulating growth across various sectors, including aerospace, defence, and associated industries. The projects are expected to generate substantial direct and indirect employment opportunities, showcasing the government's commitment to fostering self-reliance and innovation in the defence sector. |
