India’s Defence Acquisition Council has approved the procurement of three advanced ISTAR surveillance aircraft, valued at approximately $1.2 billion, with a decision on the aircraft platform expected by year-end. The final contenders, Gulfstream and Bombardier, will provide high-altitude, long-endurance jets capable of real-time battlefield intelligence. The indigenous sensor suite from DRDO will integrate advanced AI, significantly enhancing the Indian Air Force’s capabilities. This initiative not only streamlines India’s military procurement process but also positions it among a select group of nations with sophisticated airborne surveillance systems, reinforcing its strategic military posture in a complex geopolitical landscape.