Relevance: GS III (Defence: Indigenisation & Security) | Source: The Hindu
1. The Context: A ₹3.6 Lakh Crore Boost
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by the Defence Minister, has granted the Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for capital acquisition proposals worth roughly ₹3.6 lakh crore.
- Significance: This is the first formal step in the procurement process, signaling a massive push for modernization and “Make in India” in the defence sector.
2. Key Approvals
- For Air Force (IAF):
- 114 Rafales: Approved the procurement of 114 Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA), specifically the Rafale jets. A majority will be manufactured in India to boost domestic industry.
- HAPS (High-Altitude Pseudo Satellites): These are solar-powered airships that fly in the stratosphere (20 km high). Unlike satellites that orbit the earth, HAPS can hover over one spot (like a border) for months, acting as “eyes in the sky” for continuous surveillance.
- For Navy:
- 6 P-8I Aircraft: Additional long-range maritime patrol aircraft from the USA. They are crucial for Anti-Submarine Warfare—hunting enemy submarines in the Indian Ocean.
- For Army:
- Vibhav Mines: Anti-tank mines designed to delay and destroy enemy tanks.
3. Why Rafale Again?
Choosing the Rafale (which India already flies) resolves the “logistics nightmare.” Operating too many different types of jets creates maintenance problems. Standardizing on one platform simplifies training and spare parts management.
UPSC Value Box
| Concept / Institution | Relevance for Prelims |
| Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) | The highest decision-making body for capital acquisition in the Ministry of Defence. It is chaired by the Defence Minister. |
| Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) | The first stage in the defence procurement process. It means the government agrees that the equipment is “necessary.” It is not the final contract. |
| P-8I Poseidon | A long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft manufactured by Boeing (USA). It is often called the “submarine hunter.” |
Q. With reference to the defence procurement structure in India, consider the following statements:
- The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) is chaired by the Prime Minister of India.
- The “Acceptance of Necessity” (AoN) is the final stage of the defence procurement process after which money is released.
- The P-8I aircraft, recently seen in the news, is primarily used for anti-submarine warfare and maritime surveillance.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Correct Answer: (b)
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