In a significant move to bolster India’s air defence capabilities, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), headed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has cleared a massive procurement worth over ₹30,000 crore. The highlight of the approvals includes the acquisition of the indigenously developed Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile (QRSAM) system for the Indian Army. This strategic development marks a major leap in India’s self-reliance efforts in defence under the ‘Make in India’ initiative.
The QRSAM system, designed to provide short-range air defence against multiple aerial threats, is a product of collaborative efforts between the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL). The indigenous system is capable of tracking and neutralizing multiple targets in motion, including fighter aircraft, helicopters, drones, and precision-guided munitions.
The procurement of QRSAM systems, estimated at over ₹10,000 crore, is expected to significantly enhance the Indian Army’s air defence shield, especially in forward operational areas. The QRSAM boasts features such as all-weather, all-terrain operability, high mobility, and fast reaction time, making it a critical asset for battlefield readiness.
The DAC has also approved additional proposals involving the procurement of high-mobility vehicles and radar systems, bringing the total defence procurement to over ₹30,000 crore. According to defence officials, all projects fall under the ‘Buy Indian-Indigenously Designed Developed and Manufactured (IDDM)’ category — the highest priority procurement category in India’s defence acquisition policy.
This procurement comes at a time when border tensions and aerial threats remain significant challenges to national security. With increased emphasis on modernising the armed forces, the Ministry of Defence continues to prioritize indigenous technologies, reducing reliance on foreign defence systems.
Speaking on the development, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reiterated the government’s commitment to Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) in defence. “These approvals are a testimony to our resolve to equip our forces with the best indigenous technologies,” he stated.
The QRSAM system has undergone multiple successful test firings and is slated to enter full-scale production soon. Once deployed, it will work in conjunction with other layers of air defence systems such as the Akash missiles and the upcoming Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missiles (MRSAM), providing a multi-tiered defence structure.
