New Delhi, Aug 12: To boost the indigenous capability in the defence sector, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved proposals for capital acquisitions worth Rs 8,722.38 crore of various platforms and equipment required by the Indian Armed Forces. These proposals also include 106 Basic Trainer Aircraft for Indian Air Force.

 

 

 

The meeting held on Tuesday was chaired by the Defence Minister Rajnath who gave clearances to the proposals, a step towards to 'Atmanirbhar Bharat'.

 

 

"With Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) having successfully developed Basic Trainer Aircraft (HTT-40) Prototypes and certification process underway, the DAC approved procurement of 106 Basic Trainer Aircraft from HAL to address the basic training requirements of the Indian Air Force (IAF). Post Certification 70 Basic Trainer Aircraft will be initially procured from HAL and balance 36 after operationalisation of HTT-40 fleet in IAF," the statement from the Ministry said.

 

 

For Indian Navy, to strengthen the firepower the DAC approved procurement of an upgraded version of Super Rapid Gun Mount (SRGM) which is fitted as the main gun on board Navy and Indian Coast Guard (ICG) warships from Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL). However, it will come with the upgraded version. This version of SRGM has enhanced capability to perform against fast manoeuvring targets like missiles and Fast Attack Crafts and increase the maximum engagement range.

 

 

For Indian Army, keeping the view of the availability of requisite capability for indigenous development of the ammunition, both in terms of ‘Manufacturing’ and ‘Technology’, the DAC approved procurement of 125 mm APFSDS (Armour Piercing Fin Stabilized Discarding Sabot) ammunition for Indian Army as a ‘Design and Development Case’. The ammunition being procured will have a 70 per cent indigenous content.

 

It further said that the DAC also gave approvals that are likely to speed up the procurement of AK 203 and Unmanned Aerial Vehicle upgrades.