New Delhi [India]: In a significant boost to the Make in India initiative in the defence sector, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) has cleared two major defence projects worth approximately ₹20,000 crore. These projects include the acquisition of 12 Su-30 MKI fighter jets for the Indian Air Force (IAF) and 100 K-9 Vajra self-propelled howitzers for the Indian Army.
Details of the Projects
- Su-30 MKI Fighter Jets
- The 12 Su-30 MKI jets, costing around ₹13,000 crore, will be manufactured under license by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) at its Nashik facility.
- These aircraft will replace IAF jets lost over the years, bolstering India’s air combat capability.
- HAL will lead the production, involving a robust supply chain of small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
- K-9 Vajra Self-Propelled Howitzers
- The repeat order for 100 howitzers will be executed by Larsen & Toubro (L&T) at their Hazira facility in Gujarat.
- These advanced artillery systems are already deployed in the desert regions and along the Ladakh border to counter threats from China.
- L&T has increased the indigenous content in the howitzers, strengthening India’s self-reliance in defence production.
Strategic Importance
The two projects are set to enhance India’s operational readiness and firepower on both air and land fronts.
- IAF’s Fleet Expansion: The new Su-30 MKIs will augment India’s frontline fighter capabilities and maintain combat readiness.
- Enhanced Artillery Strength: The K-9 Vajra, a proven asset in challenging terrains, will reinforce the Army’s ability to counter adversaries effectively.
Boost to ‘Make in India’ and SMEs
Both projects will further the Make in India initiative, providing significant opportunities for the local defence manufacturing sector. HAL and L&T’s initiatives are expected to strengthen their supply chains, benefiting numerous SMEs across the country.
This approval underscores India’s commitment to modernizing its armed forces while promoting indigenous defence production.