MoD Secures Major Defence Contracts: INR 1,917 Crore Investment in Cutting-Edge Military Equipment

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has taken a major step to support the government’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative. They signed contracts worth INR 697.35 crore with Action Construction Equipment Ltd (ACE) and JCB India Ltd to procure 1,868 Rough Terrain Fork Lift Trucks (RTFLTs). ACE will supply 1,121 of these trucks, including attachments, for a total of INR 420 crores.

Defence Secretary R K Singh was present during the signing of the contracts. The RTFLTs will be made in India, boosting the country’s defense production. This project is expected to create jobs and benefit small and medium enterprises involved in component manufacturing.

What are Rough Terrain Fork Lift Trucks?

• Heavy-duty forklifts designed for outdoor use on uneven grounds, also known as all-terrain forklifts.
• They feature large tires, high ground clearance, and strong engines that help them navigate rough terrain easily.
• All-wheel drive allows for better traction on slippery surfaces and steep hills.
• Durable construction ensures they can handle challenging environments.

The RTFLT is essential for the Indian Army, Indian Air Force, and Indian Navy. It reduces the need for manual handling of supplies, improving operational efficiency and combat readiness.

In another significant move, the MoD signed a contract worth INR 1,220.12 crore with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) for 149 Software Defined Radios (SDRs) for the Indian Coast Guard. This procurement aims to enhance secure communication and improve situational awareness during maritime operations.

These radios will strengthen the Indian Coast Guard’s ability to carry out crucial tasks like law enforcement, search and rescue, and protecting marine resources. They will also improve coordination with the Indian Navy during joint operations.

This initiative, under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat program, will not only boost manufacturing capabilities but also create job opportunities and develop specialized skills in advanced military communication systems.