India has taken a major step toward strengthening its military preparedness by approving a ₹79,000 crore ($9.4 billion) defence modernisation package. The decision, cleared by the Defence Acquisition Council on December 29, 2025, focuses on upgrading critical combat, surveillance, and support systems across the Air Force, Army, and Navy.
The move underlines India’s intent to modernise its armed forces amid evolving security challenges, while also balancing foreign purchases with the country’s long-term goal of defence self-reliance.
Big Defence Approval Aimed at Modern Warfare Needs
The clearance was granted by the Defence Acquisition Council, the top decision-making body for defence procurement in India. The approved package includes a mix of advanced weapons, smart munitions, rockets, drones, and naval equipment.
Officials said the focus is on precision strike capability, surveillance, mobility, and rapid response, ensuring that all three services are better prepared for modern and future conflicts.
India Air Force to Get SPICE-1000 Smart Bomb Kits
A major highlight of the package is the approval to procure 1,000 SPICE-1000 guidance kits for the Indian Air Force from Israel-based defence company Rafael.
These kits convert conventional unguided bombs into highly accurate smart weapons. Once fitted, the bombs gain:
- A glide range of 100-125 kilometres
- Jam-resistant navigation systems
- Accuracy of less than 3 metres
This capability allows aircraft to strike targets from a safe distance, reducing exposure to enemy air defences.
Proven Weapon System With Combat Experience
The SPICE-1000 system is already familiar to the Indian Air Force. It has been integrated with key fighter aircraft such as:
- Dassault Rafale
- Su-30MKI
- Mirage 2000
These smart munitions were notably used during the 2019 Balakot air strikes, where they demonstrated high precision and effectiveness. Defence experts say the new procurement will significantly enhance the Air Force’s stand-off strike capability.
Indian Army to Strengthen Firepower and Surveillance
Under the same modernisation package, the Indian Army will receive loitering munitions, often referred to as “suicide drones”. These systems can hover over a target area, identify threats, and strike with precision when commanded.
In addition, the Army will induct more Pinaka multi-barrel rocket systems, a domestically developed weapon that has become a key part of India’s artillery strength. Pinaka rockets offer:
- Rapid saturation fire
- High mobility
- Improved accuracy with guided variants
Officials say these additions will improve the Army’s ability to respond swiftly along both western and northern borders.
Indian Navy Gets Support Vessels and Surveillance Drones
The Indian Navy will also benefit from the newly approved package. The Navy is set to receive:
Harbour and ocean-going tugboats, improving operational support and logistics
Advanced surveillance drones for maritime domain awareness
These systems will enhance the Navy’s ability to monitor vast sea areas, track suspicious activity, and secure India’s long coastline and key sea lanes.
Balancing Imports With ‘Make in India’ Goals
While a portion of the procurement involves foreign suppliers, officials stressed that the overall package aligns with India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative.
Several components, especially rockets, drones, and support vessels, will be produced domestically with Indian companies playing a key role. The government aims to:
- Reduce long-term dependence on imports
- Strengthen India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem
- Encourage technology transfer and local production
Despite this push, India continues to rely on strategic partners for advanced technologies not yet fully developed at home.
India Remains Israel’s Largest Defence Buyer
The latest approval once again highlights India’s strong defence partnership with Israel. India is currently Israel’s largest defence customer, with cooperation spanning missiles, drones, radar systems, and electronic warfare technologies.
Defence analysts note that Israeli systems are often chosen for their combat-proven performance, rapid delivery timelines, and adaptability to Indian platforms.
Strategic Significance of the ₹79,000 Crore Package
Experts say the scale and scope of this approval reflect India’s changing security environment. With regional tensions, evolving warfare technologies, and the growing role of drones and precision weapons, modernisation is no longer optional.
The package is expected to:
- Enhance deterrence capability
- Improve joint operations among the three services
- Strengthen India’s readiness for both conventional and hybrid threats
It also sends a strong signal that India is willing to invest heavily in maintaining military superiority.
What Happens Next
Following the Defence Acquisition Council’s approval, the next steps include:
- Final contract negotiations
- Timelines for delivery and integration
- Coordination with domestic and foreign manufacturers
Officials said most systems will be inducted in a phased manner over the next few years, ensuring minimal disruption to ongoing operations.
A Major Leap in India’s Defence Preparedness
The approval of the $9.4 billion defence modernisation package marks one of India’s most significant military investment decisions in recent years. By upgrading smart weapons, artillery, drones, and naval assets, India is strengthening its ability to respond effectively to modern security challenges.
At the same time, the move reflects a careful balance between acquiring proven foreign technology and building domestic defence capabilities. As these systems enter service, they are expected to play a crucial role in shaping India’s military posture in the years ahead.
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