The Ministry of Defence has finalized 13 contracts for ₹1,981.90 crore under the Emergency Procurement (EP) process to improve the Indian Army’s operational readiness in response to security challenges.
These acquisitions, carried out under fast-track procedures, are intended to swiftly improve the Army’s situational awareness, lethality, mobility, and personnel protection, particularly for forces deployed in counterterrorism (CT) environments.
The procurement package covers a comprehensive range of modern, mission-critical, and entirely indigenous systems. Key acquisitions include Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction Systems (IDDIS), Low Level Lightweight Radars (LLLR), Very Short Range Air Defence Systems (VSHORADS) with launchers and missiles, Remotely Piloted Aerial Vehicles (RPAVs), and loitering munitions with Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) capabilities. The contracts also include several types of surveillance and combat drones, bulletproof jackets, ballistic helmets, Quick Reaction Fighting Vehicles (QRFVs) in both heavy and medium classes, and rifle night sights.
This acquisition campaign comes amid increased security concerns following recent cross-border operations and retaliatory strikes between India and Pakistan. The Ministry’s statement emphasizes that these contracts were finalized with an aggregate sanctioned budget of ₹2,000 crore. Deliveries are expected on shortened deadlines to ensure rapid capability development.
Since 2020, the EP mechanism has been deployed in response to urgent operational needs, and it has played an important role in bridging crucial capability gaps, particularly in the aftermath of the Ladakh standoff with China and recent counter-terror operations. The present phase is the sixth wave of emergency procurements, demonstrating the government’s commitment to providing the Army with modern indigenous technology to combat growing threats.
According to defense officials, the military’s inventory and operational edge have been greatly enhanced over the last five years due to the rapid purchase of platforms, weapons, and accessories. The three services have been granted emergency powers to spend up to 15% of their capital budgets on urgent purchases, allowing for speedy replenishment of operating stocks and prompt deployment of critical equipment.
This purchase program is a critical step toward strengthening the Indian Army’s counter-terror grid, ensuring that it is prepared to tackle current and future security challenges with speed and efficiency.
The Defence Ministry has expedited a ₹1,981 crore procurement for the Indian Army’s counter-terrorism arsenal.
