Indian MoD Commits $572M for BrahMos Launcher, HELINA & VSHORAD Missiles

Indian defence ministry has earmarked $572 million (INR 4,276 Crore) to modernize the country’s armed forces by procuring latest military equipment including BrahMos launchers and HELINA anti-tank guided missiles.

On January 10, Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), headed by defence minister Rajnath Singh accorded Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for three capital acquisition proposals.

It includes procurement of HELINA Anti-Tank Guided Missiles, launchers and associated support equipment which will be integrated to the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH). This missile is an essential part of weaponisation of ALH for countering enemy threat.

The DAC also accorded AoN for procurement of VSHORAD (IR Homing) missile system under design and development by DRDO. In view of the recent developments along the Northern borders there is a need to focus on effective Air Defence (AD) weapon systems which are man portable and can be deployed quickly in rugged terrain and maritime domain. Procurement of VSHORAD, as a robust and quickly deployable system, will strengthen the Air Defence capabilities.

Further, the DAC granted approval for procurement of Brahmos Launcher and Fire Control System (FCS) for the Shivalik class of ships & Next Generation Missile Vessels (NGMVs) for Indian Navy. With their induction, these ships would have enhanced capability of carrying out maritime strike operations, interdicting and destroying enemy’s warships and merchant vessels.