The Ministry of Defence on Friday signed contracts worth around ₹1,577 crore with Tata Advanced Systems Limited and NIBE Private Limited for the procurement of loitering munition systems, munitions and other equipment for the Indian Army.
The contracts were signed in New Delhi in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, the ministry said in a statement.
Loitering munitions to boost Army’s artillery capabilities
According to the ministry, the Loitering Munition System will enhance the operational capabilities of the Army’s Artillery Regiment. The system will allow troops to search for and engage important enemy targets with greater flexibility.
The procurement will provide the Army with several operational advantages:
Enhanced target detection: The system will help artillery units identify and engage critical enemy positions.
Greater strike flexibility: Loitering munitions can remain over a designated target area for a period while searching for suitable targets.
Rapid response: Once a target is identified, the system can be used to strike it without requiring a separate attack platform.
Boost to domestic defence manufacturing: The procurement under the ‘Buy Indian’ category is expected to strengthen India’s indigenous defence industry and military manufacturing capabilities.
Faster induction: The contracts have been signed under the Fast Track Procedure, aimed at accelerating the acquisition and deployment of critical military equipment.
