Rajnath Singh's council approves ₹80,000 crore stealth-guided missile destroyers to counter China and Pakistan
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Border management· Prelims + Mains·
Maritime security and indigenous manufacturing: a key GS3 topic on Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defense.
Why in news
The Defence Acquisition Council, chaired by Rajnath Singh, gave in-principle approval for Project 18A to develop stealth-guided missile destroyers to counter maritime threats from China and Pakistan.
Background
Project 18A involves the development of next-generation stealth-guided missile destroyers for the Indian Navy. The project is estimated to cost ₹80,000 crore and aims for nearly 75% indigenous content.
Facts for Prelims
- FactProject 18A estimated cost: ₹80,000 crore
- FactIndigenous content target: nearly 75%
- PostDefence Acquisition Council is chaired by the Union Minister of Defence
- S&TProject 18A focuses on stealth-guided missile destroyers
Prelims practice question
What is the target percentage for indigenous content in Project 18A?
- (a)75%
- (b)100%
- (c)90%
- (d)50%
Show answer
Answer: (a) 75% — The project aims for nearly 75% indigenous content for the stealth-guided missile destroyers.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the significance of indigenous defense manufacturing in enhancing India's maritime security and strategic autonomy against regional neighbors.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Strategic deterrence: Enhancing naval capabilities to counter maritime expansionism in the Indian Ocean
- Aatmanirbhar Bharat: Reducing import dependency through high indigenous content in high-tech naval assets
- Logistical timeline: Balancing rapid procurement needs with the 5-10 year delivery cycle for complex stealth technology
Keywords: Maritime Security · Strategic Autonomy · Indigenous Defense · Aatmanirbhar Bharat · Naval Deterrence
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