India OKs $30 Billion Weapons Push Amid Regional Tensions

India is accelerating a major military modernization, analysts say. The goal is to deploy new weapon systems faster and counter external threats. Last year, the government approved three large defense packages. Together, they are worth $30 billion. This is part of India's total annual defense budget of $78.7 billion, which parliament approved in February. The approvals signal a rapid pace for India's military upgrade plans. Officials are focusing on obtaining advanced technology and equipment to address regional security challenges.