Ahead of his visit to Russia, Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar on Thursday cleared projects related to military modernisation worth Rs 12,000 crore.
The projects involves the Rs 4250 crore upgradation project of 26 Ilyushin transport aircraft by Russia, which is the largest project to be cleared by the minister. The ministry also cleared projects related to the acquisition of additional regiments of the indigenously-built Pinaka multiple-launch rocket systems.
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), which is headed by Parrikar, cleared proposals to acquire four multi-purpose vessels for the Indian Navy, each of which costs Rs 700 crore. The DAC cleared the production of 363 BMP-II infantry combat vehincles, which are under licence from Russia—a project that will cost Rs 1800 crore.
In addition, the DAC granted the acquisition of 149 BMP-II vehicles at Rs 924 crore. These vehicles are for the Indian Army. The DAC also approved the Rs 1800 crore digitisation project of 25 firing units of the Pechora surface-to-air missile.
The Council cleared deep-sea submarine rescue vessels, which come handy during recovery of submarines and personnel in mishaps. This is significant in the light of the recent spate of accidents, in which the Indian Navy has lost submarines.
In Russia, the two countries will reportedly discuss the Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) deal, and the lease of the second nuclear submarine to India. Following his Russia visit, Parrikar will visit Malaysia to attend the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meet (ADMM+).