Indian Army to Acquire Advanced Night Sights, Boosting Indigenous Defence Manufacturing
SDG 9: Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure | SDG 8: Decent Work & Economic Growth
Institutions: Ministry of Defence
The Ministry of Defence signed a ₹659.47 crore contract on 15 October 2025 to procure advanced night sights (image intensifiers) and accessories for 7.62 × 51 mm SIG-716 assault rifles for the Indian Army. These devices enable effective target engagement up to 500 metres, even under starlit conditions, providing a major upgrade over existing passive night sights.
This procurement is classified as a Buy (Indian - IDDM) case, stipulating more than 51% indigenous content, making it a strategic step toward Aatmanirbharta in defence manufacturing. The deal also includes participation by MSMEs in component manufacturing and raw material supply, amplifying the local industrial base.
What is “Buy (Indian — IDDM)”? → It is the highest-priority procurement category under India’s Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP).
IDDM stands for Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured. A “Buy (Indian — IDDM)” case means the equipment is both made in India and designed in India, with at least 50 % indigenous content by cost. This ensures that Indian firms and not foreign suppliers, own the technology, design, and production, strengthening local R&D, supply chains, and MSME participation.
Relevant Question for Policy Stakeholders:
How can procurement frameworks ensure effective compliance to indigenous content thresholds, while also driving technology upgrades and competitiveness among Indian defence suppliers?
Follow the full news here: PIB: Ministry of Defence signs ₹659.47 Crore Night Sight Deal