New Delhi: In a big boost to the Army’s capabilities in counter-terrorism (CT) operations, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has concluded 13 contracts under the Emergency Procurement (EP) mechanism. These contracts, amounting to Rs 1,981.90 crore, have been finalised against an overall sanctioned outlay of Rs 2,000 crore for the Indian Army.
The procurement was done keeping in mind the threat from drones and Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles (UCAVs) that were launched by Pakistan during Operation Sindoor. According to a senior official, terror outfits across the border also have access to this technology and can use it against troops engaged in CT operations in Jammu and Kashmir. The systems can also be used to protect civilian targets.
“The procurement, executed through fast-track procedures under the EP mandate, aims to enhance situational awareness, lethality, mobility, and protection for troops deployed in CT environments. The acquisitions were completed within compressed timelines to ensure rapid capability augmentation,” the official said.
The key equipment being procured include Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction Systems (IDDIS), Low Level Lightweight Radars (LLLR), Very Short-Range Air Defence Systems (VSHORADS)- Launchers and Missiles, Remotely Piloted Aerial Vehicles (RPAVs), Loitering Munitions, including Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) systems and various categories of drones.
Apart from this, bullet proof jackets, ballistic helmets, Quick Reaction Fighting Vehicles (QRFVs) – Heavy and Medium and night sights for rifles are also being procured.
“Operation Sindoor has been an eye-opener. It brought to focus how drones, both armed and otherwise, can play a crucial role in combat. The drones that were used are both cheap and easy to procure. There is no reason why these can’t be used by terrorists for long-range attacks. Conventional air defence systems are not useful against drones, hence the need for special equipment,” another official said.
These procurements also reflect the MoD’s commitment to equip the Army with modern, mission-critical, and completely indigenous systems. The EP route continues to be a key enabler in bridging urgent capability gaps and ensuring timely induction of vital operational equipment.
