New Delhi. Taking a big step towards making the country’s security system foolproof, the Defense Acquisition Council (DAC) has approved a historic purchase. The Council has approved the proposal to purchase 114 Rafale fighter aircraft for the Indian Air Force and 6P-8I Poseidon maritime surveillance aircraft for the Navy. It is considered to be one of India’s largest defense procurement plans ever, with an estimated cost of around Rs 3.25 lakh crore.
The most important aspect of this deal is to handle the falling squadron strength of the Air Force. With the induction of 114 new Rafale aircraft, the Indian Air Force will get 6 to 7 new squadrons. At present the Air Force has about 30 squadrons, while 42 squadrons are required to meet the security needs of the country. After getting the approval of DAC, this proposal will now be sent to the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) for final approval.
Navy’s maritime surveillance will also be strengthened
India’s surveillance capability is going to increase not only in the sky but also in the sea. DAC has approved the addition of 6 new 6P-8I aircraft to the Navy’s fleet. The Indian Navy already operates 12 6P-8I aircraft. The arrival of these new aircraft will further strengthen the maritime surveillance and anti-submarine capability in the Indian Ocean region.