The Ministry of Defense has taken a major step in the defense sector of India to counter China and Pakistan. Rajnath Singh's ministry has finalized the plan to buy advanced armed drones and Brahmos missiles for the Indian Army. A deal worth about Rs 67,000 crore has been given initial approval for the purchase and maintenance of weapons.

A high-level meeting of the Defense Acquisition Council (DAC) was held on Tuesday under the chairmanship of Defense Minister Rajnath Singh. The meeting decided that 87 medium-range long-endurance (MALE) armed drones will be purchased for the Indian Army. These drones will be manufactured by an Indian defense company with the help of foreign technology, 60 percent of which will be indigenously produced.

According to military analysts, drones are proving to be an indispensable weapon in modern warfare. Especially during ‘Operation Sindoor’, the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force – all three services – realized the importance of armed drones. The new MALE drones are expected to be able to strike enemy bases and return safely to the base.

A senior Defence Ministry official said that the purchase of these 87 armed drones will cost around Rs 20,000 crore. In addition, another Rs 11,000 crore has been earmarked for 10 years of maintenance.

The purchase of Brahmos missiles is also part of the plan. In the context of increasing tension on the border, especially in the context of conflicts with China and Pakistan, the move is being seen as a strategic step to modernise India’s defence system and ensure security.