Article Posted on : - Mar 15, 2011

A file photo.

NEW DELHI (PTI): Defence Minister A K Antony Monday told Parliament that two new gun systems are expected to be inducted into the Indian Army.

Replying to a question in the Lok Sabha, he said "two new gun systems are expected to be inducted during the 11th Plan."

On the steps being taken by the government to supply state-of-art guns to the army, Antony said "modernisation is an ongoing process. While a number of weapons and equipment have already been inducted, procurement process for other weapons, including guns, is under way."

Replying to another query on installation of coastal scan system for the Coast Guard to monitor the sea lanes of the country, the Minister said "a project for installation of a chain of static sensors for coastal surveillance is under implementation."

"In the first phase, surveillance is being enhanced at 46 locations around high traffic density and security sensitive areas. Another 40 stations will be established in Phase II."

The first phase of the project is expected to be implemented by 2012.

Meanwhile, replying to a question on Pakistan's nuclear capability and reports that it has added 40 to 100 additional weapons in last five years, he said "the government has seen reports relating to nuclear weapons programme of Pakistan. India's nuclear doctrine and security preparedness is geared to meet all its current and future security needs and challenges".

"The government remains committed to taking all necessary measures to meet any security threat," he added.