NEW DELHI: Defence Ministry today approved the much delayed purchase of 145 Ultra Light Howitzers, worth about Rs 5,000 crore, from the US and also the bulk production of 18 Dhanush artillery guns, the first acquisition of such weapon systems by the Army in three decades since the Bofors scandal.
Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar, took up 18 proposals including new schemes worth Rs 28,000 crore for discussion.
Another key project that got an Acceptance of Necessity (AON), which will now allow the Navy to issue tenders, was the proposal to build six next generation missile vessels under ‘Buy Indian’ category for Rs 13,600 crore.
“DAC has approved progressing of ongoing case of procurement of 145 Ultra Light Howitzers through the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) route from US. DAC directed independent progressing of offset. The delivery of these guns will be in India which will help in substantial saving of transportation cost,” a senior Defence Ministry official said.
The DAC has also shortened the supply period of the guns, with a strike range of 25 kms, sources said though the exact period could not be known. (AGENCIES)
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