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Indian Army and Navy to Receive Rs 1.2 Lakh Crore Boost for High-Tech Warships and Next-Gen Tanks to Counter China

The government is set to approve major defense projects worth Rs 1.2 lakh crore, including the construction of seven advanced warships for the Navy and the procurement of 1,700 new tanks for the Army. At the upcoming Defence Acquisition Council meeting, these high-profile projects will be a key focus, aiming to bolster national security and strengthen India's defense capabilities as part of the 'Make in India' initiative.

The government is poised to approve several major defense projects worth a total of Rs 1.2 lakh crore. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) is set to meet on Tuesday to review and potentially authorize these significant initiatives.

According to defense sources, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) is expected to approve the issuance of a tender worth approximately Rs 70,000 crore to Indian shipyards, including private sector shipyards, under the ‘Make in India’ initiative.

Indian Navy’s Project 17 Bravo

One of the key projects under consideration is the Indian Navy’s Project 17 Bravo, which focuses on the construction of seven advanced stealth frigates. Valued at approximately Rs 70,000 crore, this initiative aims to significantly enhance the Navy’s capabilities by introducing the most modern warships ever built in India.

Mazagon Dockyards Limited (MDL) and Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) are the leading contenders for the Indian Navy’s Project 17 Bravo. MDL is currently constructing four frigates under Project 17A, while GRSE is building three. According to a source quoted in an India Today report, “There is a possibility that the mega project could be split between the two shipyards, with the lowest bidder receiving four ships, while the other could be awarded three.”

Project Details and Tender Process

The tender for the Navy’s Project 17 Bravo will likely be directed at Category A shipyards, including Mazagon Dockyards Limited (MDL), Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Goa Shipyard Limited, and Larsen & Toubro. To expedite the project, there is a possibility of splitting the order between two shipyards. Currently, MDL and GRSE are involved in constructing frigates under Project 17A, with MDL building four and GRSE constructing three.

Indian Army’s Plan for New Tanks

China’s “string of pearls” strategy around India has intensified, transitioning from economic maneuvers to direct military initiatives. Beijing has been enhancing regional infrastructure like airports, ports, and electronic surveillance systems, which serve dual civilian and military purposes. These upgrades include underwater terrain mapping in the Maldives and electronic surveillance in the Bay of Bengal, specifically targeting Indian defense facilities.
 
China has also expanded its naval presence in Sri Lanka and is building an airstrip on the Great Coco Island in Myanmar, near India’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This island is reportedly being used as a listening post against India, with plans for permanent research vessel deployment. Additionally, China and Pakistan will conduct a joint naval exercise in the Arabian Sea in January 2025.
 
Furthermore, China has upgraded its naval base in Djibouti from a simple refueling stop to a facility capable of repair and refurbishment. This expansion poses significant challenges to India’s strategic and technological capabilities.

High-Level DAC Meeting

The upcoming Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) meeting, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, will involve key defense leaders, including the Chief of Defence Staff and service chiefs. The meeting will focus on approving critical acquisitions, such as infantry combat vehicles, aligning with India’s ‘Make in India’ vision and self-reliance in defense manufacturing. These initiatives aim to modernize the Indian military and strengthen national security by upgrading the capabilities of both the Army and Navy.

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