DAC Approves Rs 2.38 Lakh Crore Defence Push: Five More S-400 Missile Systems from Russia Cleared for Indian Air Force

The Defence Acquisition Council is the highest decision-making body in the Ministry of Defence for buying new weapons and equipment. It is chaired by the Defence Minister and includes the three service chiefs. The DAC gives the first important approval called Acceptance of Necessity (AoN). This approval allows the services to start detailed talks with suppliers, hold trials and finally sign contracts.

The S-400 is a highly advanced Russian long-range surface-to-air missile system. It can detect, track and destroy many types of aerial threats at the same time. These threats include fighter aircraft, cruise missiles, ballistic missiles and drones. It can engage targets up to 400 km away and can be moved quickly to different places when needed. India refers to it as a key part of its multi-layered air defence shield.

India first signed a deal for five S-400 systems in October 2018 worth about $5.43 billion. Some of these have already been delivered and deployed. The additional five systems were needed to fill gaps in air defence coverage. Recent security challenges along the borders and the growing use of drones and missiles made this purchase urgent. The systems proved very effective during Operation Sindoor, where they successfully handled real threats.

India and Russia have a long history of strong defence ties. Russia has been a trusted partner for decades and supplies many important weapons to India. The 2018 S-400 deal was signed during Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India. Even though some countries raised concerns about the deal, India went ahead because the system is critical for national security. The new approval shows that this partnership continues strongly.

The extra S-400 systems will create a stronger layered air defence network. This will protect important cities, military bases and strategic areas from enemy air attacks. In today’s environment, where threats come from long-range missiles and swarms of drones, such advanced systems are very important. They will also give the Indian Air Force more confidence while carrying out operations.

Besides the S-400, the DAC approved several other important items. For the Indian Air Force, it cleared 60 medium transport aircraft to replace the ageing Russian-origin AN-32 and IL-76 planes. These new planes will improve the ability to move troops and supplies quickly over long distances. Remotely piloted strike aircraft (armed drones) were also approved for precision strikes and intelligence gathering without risking pilots’ lives. Overhaul of Su-30 fighter jet engines was cleared to keep the large fleet flying. For the Army, approvals include more Dhanush artillery guns, special tank ammunition and improved air defence systems.

This big clearance is part of a record defence acquisition drive. It shows India’s commitment to keep the armed forces modern and ready. At the same time, the government is also pushing for more indigenous production under Atmanirbhar Bharat. Buying critical systems like S-400 from trusted partners while developing Indian alternatives helps balance immediate needs with long-term self-reliance.