India’s Defence Ministry signs two defence contracts worth ₹4,106 crore: one for a dedicated satellite communications capability for the Indian Air Force, and another for heavy weight torpedoes for the Indian Navy. The communications deal centers on GSAT-7C, described as an indigenously designed, developed and manufactured satellite meant to provide enhanced secure and resilient connectivity for IAF assets.
Outlets report that GSAT-7C, valued at ₹2,563 crore, is intended to replace the ageing GSAT-7A satellite used to support IAF operations and to support network-centric warfare by enabling real-time data sharing across platforms. The Navy contract covers Varunastra torpedoes, with a value of ₹1,543 crore, aimed at strengthening underwater and anti-submarine warfare capabilities. Multiple sources frame the agreements as part of India’s broader push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing technologies, including domestically developed systems.
