India approves procurement of 114 Rafale jets and P-8I aircraft
Defense Acquisition Council approves ₹3.6 lakh crore for military modernization, boosting domestic production.
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has approved capital acquisition proposals worth approximately ₹3.6 lakh crore. These include 114 Rafale fighter jets from France for the Indian Air Force (IAF) and six P-8I long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft from the United States for the Indian Navy. The procurement aims to enhance the IAF's air-dominance capability and the Navy's long-range anti-submarine warfare, maritime surveillance, and maritime strike capabilities.
A majority of the Rafale aircraft will be manufactured in India, boosting domestic defense production. The DAC also approved the procurement of anti-tank mines and the overhaul of vehicle platforms for the Army, as well as electro-optical/infrared systems for the Indian Coast Guard.
Key Facts
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved proposals worth approximately ₹3.6 lakh crore.
The procurement includes 114 Rafale fighter jets from France for the IAF.
Six P-8I long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft will be procured from the U.S. for the Indian Navy.
A majority of the Rafale jets will be manufactured in India.
UPSC Exam Angles
GS Paper 3: Security challenges and their management in border areas; linkages of organized crime with terrorism
GS Paper 2: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests
Connects to India's defense policy, indigenization efforts, and strategic partnerships
Visual Insights
Key Figures from Defence Acquisition
Highlights the approved capital acquisition amount and the number of Rafale jets to be procured.
- Capital Acquisition Proposals Approved
- ₹3.6 lakh crore
- Rafale Jets to be Procured
- 114
Significant investment to modernize the armed forces and boost domestic defense production.
Enhances the Indian Air Force's air-dominance capability.
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Background
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the key facts about the Defence Acquisition Council's (DAC) recent approval relevant for the UPSC Prelims exam?
The DAC approved proposals worth ₹3.6 lakh crore for military modernization. This includes the procurement of 114 Rafale fighter jets from France for the IAF and 6 P-8I maritime reconnaissance aircraft from the U.S. for the Indian Navy. A majority of the Rafale jets will be manufactured in India, boosting domestic defense production.
Exam Tip
Focus on the numbers (₹3.6 lakh crore, 114 Rafale, 6 P-8I) and the countries involved (France and the U.S.). Remember that the majority of Rafale jets will be made in India.
2. Why is the procurement of Rafale jets and P-8I aircraft important for India's strategic interests?
The procurement aims to enhance the IAF's air-dominance capability and the Navy's long-range anti-submarine warfare, maritime surveillance, and maritime strike capabilities. This strengthens India's ability to protect its maritime borders and project power in the Indian Ocean region, contributing to overall national security.
Exam Tip
Consider how these acquisitions fit into India's broader strategic goals of regional security and maritime dominance.
3. How does the 'Make in India' initiative relate to the procurement of Rafale jets?
A majority of the Rafale aircraft will be manufactured in India. This aligns with the 'Make in India' initiative, which aims to boost domestic defense production, reduce dependence on foreign suppliers, and encourage technology transfer.
Exam Tip
Understand that 'Make in India' is a key policy driving defense procurement decisions.
4. What are the potential benefits and challenges of manufacturing Rafale jets in India?
Manufacturing in India can boost the domestic defense industry, create jobs, and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers. However, it also presents challenges such as technology transfer, ensuring quality control, and managing costs effectively.
Exam Tip
For the interview, consider both the economic and strategic implications of domestic manufacturing.
5. How might the procurement of these aircraft impact the average Indian citizen?
While the immediate impact might not be directly visible, a stronger defense capability can contribute to national security and stability. Furthermore, domestic manufacturing can create jobs and stimulate economic growth, indirectly benefiting citizens.
Exam Tip
Consider the broader implications of defense spending on development and social welfare.
6. What is the role of the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC)?
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by the Defence Minister, is responsible for approving capital acquisition proposals for the armed forces. It plays a crucial role in modernizing the Indian military and ensuring national security.
Exam Tip
Remember that the DAC is the apex body for defense procurement decisions.
7. Why is the procurement of Rafale jets and P-8I aircraft in the news recently?
The procurement is in the news because the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) recently approved the proposals for their acquisition, marking a significant step towards modernizing India's air force and navy.
Exam Tip
Follow up on any further developments related to the manufacturing and delivery of these aircraft.
8. What are the implications of procuring military equipment from both France and the United States?
Procuring from multiple countries diversifies India's defense suppliers, reducing dependence on any single nation. It also allows India to acquire the best available technology and maintain strategic autonomy.
Exam Tip
Consider the geopolitical implications of defense partnerships with different countries.
9. What other equipment procurements were approved by the DAC besides the Rafale jets and P-8I aircraft?
The DAC also approved the procurement of anti-tank mines and the overhaul of vehicle platforms for the Army, as well as electro-optical/infrared systems for the Indian Coast Guard.
Exam Tip
Remember the broader context of defense modernization beyond just aircraft procurement.
10. What is the historical background of India's procurement of Rafale jets?
The procurement of Rafale jets has a historical context rooted in India's need to modernize its air force. India has relied on a mix of domestically produced and imported fighter aircraft to maintain a strategic edge.
Exam Tip
Understanding the history helps contextualize the current procurement and its significance.
Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. Consider the following statements regarding the recent defense acquisitions approved by the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC): 1. The DAC approved the procurement of 114 Rafale fighter jets from France for the Indian Air Force (IAF). 2. The DAC approved the procurement of six P-8I long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft from the United States for the Indian Navy. 3. A majority of the Rafale aircraft will be manufactured in France, boosting domestic defense production. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.2 and 3 only
- C.1 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: A
Statement 1 is CORRECT: The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved the procurement of 114 Rafale fighter jets from France for the Indian Air Force (IAF). Statement 2 is CORRECT: The DAC also approved the procurement of six P-8I long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft from the United States for the Indian Navy. Statement 3 is INCORRECT: A majority of the Rafale aircraft will be manufactured in India, boosting domestic defense production, NOT in France.
2. In the context of India's defense procurement, what is the primary objective of the 'Make in India' initiative?
- A.To solely import defense equipment from foreign countries
- B.To promote indigenization and self-reliance in defense manufacturing
- C.To focus only on exporting defense equipment
- D.To privatize all defense public sector undertakings (DPSUs)
Show Answer
Answer: B
The 'Make in India' initiative in defense aims to promote indigenization and self-reliance in defense manufacturing. This involves encouraging domestic production, technology transfer, and reducing dependence on foreign suppliers. The other options are incorrect as they do not align with the primary objective of the initiative.
3. Which of the following statements accurately describes the role of the Indian Navy?
- A.Primarily responsible for internal security within India
- B.Responsible for safeguarding India's maritime borders and trade routes
- C.Solely focused on air defense operations
- D.Primarily involved in land-based military operations
Show Answer
Answer: B
The Indian Navy is responsible for safeguarding India's maritime borders and trade routes. It plays a crucial role in maintaining maritime security, protecting India's interests in the Indian Ocean, and responding to maritime threats. The other options do not accurately describe the primary role of the Indian Navy.
Source Articles
Rafale-M once inducted, will ensure full fighter strength on both aircraft carriers - The Hindu
DAC clears record ₹3.60 lakh crore defence procurements, 114 Rafale jets and six P-8I aircraft among major approvals - The Hindu
India, France conclude inter-governmental agreement for 26 Rafale-M jets for Navy - The Hindu
India receives price bids for 26 Rafale-M jets, 3 Scorpene submarines - The Hindu
India to sign deal worth over ₹63,000 crore to buy 26 Rafale Marine fighter jets from France - The Hindu