What is emergency defence procurement power? India approves Rs 40,000 cr to fast-track military purchases amid Operation Sindoor

The Indian defence forces are set to make emergency purchases worth Rs 40,000 crore to enhance combat readiness during Operation Sindoor . The defence acquisition council, chaired by senior defence and military officials, have approved the spending to ensure timely procurement of critical equipment.

Key systems being prioritised under the emergency powers include surveillance drones, kamikaze drones, loitering munitions, and various types of missiles and ammunition. Some of these, like the BrahMos and Scalp cruise missiles, have already been deployed against Pakistani targets. The Rampage missile, also used in the strikes, was initially procured under similar emergency provisions.

These emergency powers ensure that the equipment is received within a strict timeline, helping meet immediate operational requirements. This is the fifth such tranche of emergency procurement since 2019. Procurement teams from all three services will coordinate with defence finance advisers to manage purchases efficiently.

Indian public and private defence firms, including Bharat Electronics and Solar Defence, are expected to receive orders for low-level radars and other high-tech systems. The forces also plan to acquire more Heron Mark 2 drones , which have been instrumental in surveillance during Operation Sindoor.

Given the current conflict and its evolving demands, the Indian government may consider additional funds for defence needs in future budgets.

What is emergency defence procurement power ?

• Emergency defence procurement power allows the armed forces to bypass standard procurement timelines for urgent military needs.
• Under it, the equipment must be delivered quickly—often within 3 to 6 months.
• The powers are activated during conflict, tensions, or natural disasters.
• Financial limits are set for each procurement cycle, allowing the military to negotiate directly.
• This mechanism was used in previous border clashes and now during Operation Sindoor.
• According to Ministry of Defence, for items previously supplied by defence PSUs or ordnance factories, the government can issue Letters of Intent (LoI) to speed up procurement before a full contract is signed.
• To ensure oversight, a high-level defence ministry committee ensures that rules are followed and no irregularities occur in large contracts.