India’s defense capabilities are undergoing a significant transformation driven by strategic decisions from the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. These recent approvals for crucial procurements and developmental projects emphasize a strong commitment to enhancing indigenous defense manufacturing and operational readiness. The initiatives include advanced air-to-air missiles, high-altitude surveillance drones, and extended-range artillery systems, aimed at equipping the Indian armed forces with cutting-edge technology. This strategic focus reinforces India’s autonomy and deterrence posture in a dynamic geopolitical landscape, aligning with the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) initiative for self-sufficiency in critical defense technologies.
Elevating Air Dominance: The Astra Mark 2 Air-to-Air Missile
A key Defence Acquisition Council approval is the acquisition of the Astra Mark 2 air-to-air missile for the Indian Air Force. This indigenous Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM), developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), is designed to significantly enhance India’s aerial combat capabilities. The Astra Mark 2 boasts an upgraded strike range exceeding 200 km, surpassing its initial projection of around 160 km, placing India among nations with advanced long-range air-to-air missile technology.
The Astra Mark 2 features an advanced propulsion system with a dual-pulse rocket motor, optimizing burn efficiency and sustaining thrust for increased range and enhanced end-game agility. Its sophisticated guidance system includes mid-course guidance via datalink and terminal active radar homing with a high-resolution active radar seeker for precise targeting. These missiles are intended for integration with frontline fighter platforms such as the Sukhoi Su-30MKI and Tejas. Limited series production is projected to begin in July 2026, with full-scale production by 2027. The Indian Air Force plans to procure over 600 Astra Mark 2 missiles to counter advanced threats like the Chinese PL-15 and reduce reliance on foreign armaments.
Enhanced Surveillance: Leasing Sea Guardian MQ-9B Drones
Another critical DAC decision involves the leasing of two Sea Guardian MQ-9B HALE (High-Altitude Long-Endurance) drones from the United States for approximately three years. These advanced unmanned aerial vehicles are crucial for long-range maritime surveillance, intelligence gathering, and reconnaissance. India has prior experience with these drones, having leased two MQ-9B Sea Guardians from General Atomics in 2020 for a year, with a subsequent extension.
This leasing arrangement serves as an interim solution for immediate surveillance needs across India’s extensive maritime zones and borders. The long-term plan includes a finalized deal for the procurement of 31 MQ-9B drones, with deliveries expected to commence from 2028. The lease ensures continuous high-altitude, long-endurance surveillance capabilities until the full acquisition program is completed, filling a critical gap. These drones provide enhanced situational awareness and response capabilities for the Indian Navy and other defense forces.
Boosting Artillery Prowess: Next-Gen Pinaka Rockets
The DAC has also approved the development of 120 km-range Pinaka rockets to significantly enhance India’s long-range artillery capabilities. The Indian Army has proposed an induction valued at approximately ₹2,500 crore for these new-generation rockets, highlighting their strategic importance.
The DRDO is leading the development of these advanced Pinaka rockets, with a key design principle being compatibility with existing Pinaka launchers that currently deploy rockets with ranges of 40 km and 75-80 km. This allows the army to engage targets at greater distances without extensive modifications to current launch systems. While DRDO designs the system, production responsibilities will be handled by Solar Industries and Munitions India Limited (MIL) through a transfer of technology agreement. Developmental trials for these longer-range rockets are anticipated in the coming months, with the first test projected for October 2025. Successful trials will lead to co-development and manufacturing with selected Development-cum-Production Partners (DcPPs).
Understanding the Impact of Defence Acquisition Council Approvals on Pinaka’s Evolution
These Defence Acquisition Council approvals mark a pivotal moment for India’s indigenous artillery systems. The extended range of the Pinaka rocket system, from its current iterations to the upcoming 120 km variant, offers the Indian Army a substantial tactical advantage, enabling deeper strikes into enemy territory with greater precision and lethality from a safer distance. This evolution integrates advanced guidance and warhead technologies, making it a formidable weapon. The “Make in India” ethos behind this project also promotes domestic production of critical military hardware, fostering self-reliance and boosting the national defense industrial base.
A Leap Towards ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ in Defence
The recent Defence Acquisition Council approvals signify India’s determined progress towards self-reliance and strategic autonomy. By prioritizing indigenous development alongside crucial tactical leases, India is systematically enhancing its defense capabilities across air, land, and sea. The acquisition of advanced Astra Mark 2 missiles, the interim leasing of MQ-9B Sea Guardian drones, and the development of 120 km-range Pinaka rockets collectively represent a multifaceted strategy. This approach not only equips the armed forces with cutting-edge technology but also stimulates domestic innovation, strengthens the defense industrial base, and reinforces India’s position as a formidable global power. This commitment to ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ is a tangible reality shaping a more secure and self-sufficient future for the nation.
About the Author
