India, Feb. 1 -- The Union Budget on Sunday allocated Rs.2.19 lakh crore to the defence forces for modernisation, an increase of about 22%, with the defence ministry being given Rs.7.8 lakh crore for the year 2026-27.

The ministry had wanted an increase of 20%, sources aware of the matter said, with the fresh boost targeted at increasing long-range standoff capabilities, military aircraft, missiles and armed drones in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor.

Defence ministry officials feel that the Budget impetus will enhance their capability in modernising the armed forces and equipment. Several projects linked to Rafale fighter jets, submarines and unmanned aerial vehicles are in the pipeline, the sources added.

In FY26, the Budget for th...