In a significant advancement for India’s naval and surveillance capabilities, the Cabinet Committee on Security has approved major defense contracts totaling Rs 80,000 crore. This includes the indigenous construction of two nuclear submarines and the acquisition of 31 Predator drones from the United States.

The Indian Navy is set to receive two nuclear-powered attack submarines, designed to significantly enhance its operational capabilities in the Indian Ocean Region. The construction of these submarines will take place at the Ship Building Centre in Vishakhapatnam, with an estimated cost of Rs 45,000 crore. This project will see substantial participation from private sector firms, including Larsen and Toubro, reflecting a shift towards indigenous defence production.

The long-pending deal has been a priority for the Indian Navy, which has emphasised the necessity of bolstering its underwater capabilities. India aims to eventually induct six such submarines as part of its broader strategic goals, with this initiative being part of the ambitious Project Advanced Technology Vessel. Notably, these submarines will complement the existing five nuclear submarines being developed under the Arihant class at the same facility.

In addition to the submarines, the Cabinet Committee on Security has greenlit the procurement of 31 Predator drones from American firm General Atomics. This acquisition, finalised under a Foreign Military Sales agreement between India and the US, was time-sensitive, needing approval before October 31. The signing of the contract is expected to occur in the coming days.

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According to the terms of the contract, the Indian Navy will receive 15 of the drones, while both the Army and Indian Air Force will each acquire eight. The deployment of these drones will occur across two bases in Uttar Pradesh, further enhancing India’s surveillance capabilities.

In a notable move towards self-reliance, indigenous technologies developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and private sector company Solar Industries may be integrated into the Predator drones. This initiative aligns with India’s ‘Make in India’ vision, aiming to fortify its defence sector with domestically produced equipment.

(With inputs from ANI)