Emergency Procurement Mechanism by the Ministry of Defence
The Ministry of Defence has engaged in significant procurement activities to bolster the capabilities of the Indian Army, specifically targeting counter-terrorism operations with fast-tracked acquisitions.
Key Contracts and Equipment Procured
- The Ministry signed 13 contracts worth Rs 1,981.90 crore under the Emergency Procurement (EP) mechanism.
- Items procured include:
- Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction Systems (IDDIS)
- Low Level Lightweight Radars (LLLR)
- Very Short Range Air Defence Systems (VSHORADs) - Launchers and Missiles
- Loitering munitions, including Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) systems
- Bulletproof jackets (BPJs) and ballistic helmets
- Quick Reaction Fighting Vehicles (QRFVs) – Heavy and Medium Night Sights for Rifles
Strategic Importance and Background
- The EP mechanism enables rapid capability augmentation under compressed timelines.
- This is the sixth phase of emergency procurements, reflecting a sustained commitment to equipping the Army with indigenous and critical systems.
- The acquisitions are part of an emergency response to operational needs, including the aftermath of Operation Sindoor and prior conflicts like the Ladakh standoff and Balakot airstrike.
Enhancements in Military Capabilities
- Emergency powers allow the services to utilize up to 15% of their capital budgets for urgent purchases.
- Recent procurements include:
- HAMMER air-to-ground precision-guided weapon system for Rafale jets
- Spice Bombs and Man Portable Air Defence System (MANPADS)
- Armour-piercing fin-stabilised discarding sabot (APFSDS) ammunition for T-72 and T-90 tanks
- Procurement of UAVs, loitering munitions, and counter-UAV systems from both domestic and foreign manufacturers.
