In a written reply, Defence Minister A K Antony told Rajya Sabha that his ministry has sent a proposal to ministry of Communication and IT for an "exclusive and dedicated" telecommunication network for the defence forces.
He said the government has already approved a budgetary support of Rs 8,098 crore in December 2009 and a proposal is under process in Ministry of Communication and Information Technology for financial approval of Rs 5,236 crore for the project.
Replying to a question on revamping the submarine fleet for the Navy, Antony said, "First of six Scorpene-class submarines being constructed at Mazagon Dock Limited, Mumbai, is scheduled for delivery in June 2015 and the last in September 2018. All six submarines are being constructed concurrently."
On commissioning of nuclear-powered submarine INS Chakra into the Navy recently, he said, "A nuclear powered submarine provides the Navy a strong sea-denial capability essential for its operations."
On preparedness of armed forces and availability of ammunition for Army, the Defence Minister said, "Ammunition in Armed forces is available in adequate quantities. The armed forces remain in a state of operational preparedness to meet any eventuality."