The defence ministry has concluded 13 contracts worth Rs 1981 crore under the emergency procurement mechanism to boost the Indian Army’s operational readiness in countering cross-border terrorism, officials said. Under the acquisition programme, the Army’s integrated drone detection and interdiction systems are being significantly enhanced, officials said.

India has been ramping up the counter-terror grid of the Indian Army to strongly combat Pakistan-backed terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. New Delhi carried out precision strikes on nine terror infrastructures in Pakistani territories on May 7 in response to the horrific Pahalgam terror attack.

The defence ministry said it is procuring military systems like low level lightweight radars, very short range air defence missiles and launchers, remotely piloted aerial vehicles and loitering munitions, including vertical take-off and landing systems.It said various categories of drones, bullet proof jackets and ballistic helmets are also being procured using the emergency procurement mechanism.