Some defense officials and analysts in India see an overhaul of the country’s defense acquisition programs as one of the key priorities of its newly installed National Democratic Alliance government, Defense News reported Monday.
Vivek Raghuvanshi writes MoD operations have largely been impaired, with long-overdue purchases put on hold or cancelled, representing some billions of dollars worth of tenders.
“The first thing the new defense minister should do is review the programs that are long overdue and which have a critical bearing on our defense preparedness,†said Anil Jai Singh, a retired Navy commodore and defense analyst.
Singh noted that the incoming administration should also collaborate with the military services to make sure both requirements and timelines are met.
Defense News reported that India’s foreign direct investments could enjoy a boost and reliance on defense imports is likely to continue.
“There is no magic bullet with the new government for indigenization,†said Rahul Bhonsle, retired Army brigadier general and defense analyst.
“Dependence on imports can be lessened if the thrust is on knowledge creation, research, increase of (the) FDI limit, tax incentives for indigenous production and increased indigenous content in defense goods,†he added.
