New Delhi, April 2 (IANS) The defence ministry Monday approved the crucial five-year and 15-year modernisation plans of the armed forces beginning 2012, after almost a year-long delay.

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), at a meeting chaired by Defence Minister A.K. Antony, gave its nod for the 15-year Long-Term Integrated Perspective Plan that will end in 2027 and the five-year plan the will end in 2017, defence ministry officials said here.