New Delhi – The Indian Ministry of Defence announced on October 15, 2026, the signing of two significant contracts valued at Rs 4,106 crore. These agreements are set to substantially bolster the Indian Air Force's (IAF) communication infrastructure and the Indian Navy's anti-submarine warfare capabilities.
Boosting IAF Communication with GSAT-7C Satellite
The larger of the two contracts, worth Rs 2,563 crore, was awarded to Bengaluru-based New Space India Limited (NSIL) for the acquisition of the GSAT-7C communication satellite. This indigenously designed, developed, and manufactured satellite is poised to provide dedicated and secure communication services for the Indian Air Force.
The GSAT-7C is expected to ensure resilient and uninterrupted communication links among various IAF assets, significantly enhancing the force's operational effectiveness across its network.
Strengthening Navy's Underwater Warfare with Varunastra Torpedoes
The second contract, valued at Rs 1,543 crore, was signed with Hyderabad-based Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) for the procurement of Varunastra heavyweight torpedoes. The Varunastra is an advanced, ship-launched anti-submarine torpedo, designed by the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory.
Equipped with sophisticated maneuvering capabilities, these torpedoes are designed to engage enemy submarines effectively at long ranges. Their acquisition will equip Indian Navy warships with domestically developed underwater weaponry, thereby fortifying the Navy's anti-submarine warfare prowess.
Commitment to Indigenous Defence Manufacturing
Both contracts underscore the government's steadfast commitment to reducing reliance on imported defence equipment and fostering domestic manufacturing within critical military technology sectors. These initiatives align with India's 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-Reliant India) and 'Make-in-India' campaigns, promoting indigenous capabilities and technological sovereignty in defence.
The agreements were formalized in New Delhi in the presence of A Anbarasu, Additional Secretary and Director General (Acquisition), Department of Defence, marking a pivotal step in India's journey towards a stronger, self-reliant defence ecosystem.