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India's Defence Sector: Revealing the Path to Technological Self-Reliance

India's Defence Secretary has emphasized the critical need for a structured policy framework to strengthen the domestic industrial base. The strategy focuses on creating a balanced synergy between public and private sectors to drive technological innovation. Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) remains a key national objective, particularly in aerospace and defence technologies. Multiple experts highlighted the importance of developing indigenous capabilities in advanced technologies like electronic warfare, sensors, and artificial intelligence.

Key Points: Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh Outlines Aatmanirbharta Strategy

  • Strategic framework needed for domestic defence industrial development
  • Aatmanirbharta goals focus on advanced aerospace technologies
  • Technological self-reliance crucial for national security
  • Public-private collaboration key to innovation ecosystem
2 min read

Need structured policy to strengthen India's domestic industrial base: Defence Secretary

India seeks structured policy to strengthen domestic industrial base through public-private synergy and technological innovation in defence sector

"Apart from capabilities to design and develop indigenous aircraft, India should also prioritise achieving expertise in electronic warfare, advanced sensors, radars, and data links. - Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari"

New Delhi, Oct 17

Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh on Friday underlined the need for a structured policy framework to strengthen India's domestic industrial base through a balanced synergy between public and private sectors.

His remarks came at the inaugural address at the 'Strategic Insight Conference on Indigenous Development of Critical Technologies for Air Power' organised by the Centre for Aerospace Power and Strategic Studies (CAPSS) in New Delhi on October 17, 2025.

The Defence Secretary emphasised that the diversification of the industrial base will end monopolies, enhance ease of doing business, and promote innovation across the ecosystem.

He reiterated the government's steadfast commitment to Aatmanirbharta in defence, stressing the importance of developing advanced aero technologies, field evaluation trials, and long-range air-to-air missile systems to strengthen India's air power capabilities.

Notably, the Vice Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari, highlighted the contribution of air power in determining strategic results, as seen during Operation Sindoor.

He said that "apart from capabilities to design and develop indigenous aircraft, India should also prioritise achieving expertise in electronic warfare, advanced sensors, radars, and data links."

Director General, AERO, DRDO K. Rajalakshmi Menon highlighted the disruptive potential of UAVs, multi-sensor fusion, and artificial intelligence in air operations.

She also spoke of advancements in stealth technology, aerostats, and airships equipped with enhanced sensors, as well as the integration of quantum, photonic, and blockchain technologies in defence systems.

DG, CAPSS, Air Vice Marshal (Retd) Anil Golani drew attention to the significance of Aatmanirbharta amid the evolving security environment and the growing technological competition in the neighbourhood.

As part of the event, the Defence Secretary released a book, 'Asian Defence Review 2025: Geo-political Shifts and Strategic Partnership Multilateralism in the Indo-Pacific'. Multiple technical sessions covering indigenous jet engine co-development, fighter aircraft programmes, unmanned systems, and strengthening the aerospace production ecosystem were also held.

The conference witnessed senior officials from the Ministry of Defence, the Indian Air Force, DRDO, and industry leaders coming together to discuss India's journey towards technological self-reliance in the aerospace and defence realms.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
As someone working in defence manufacturing, I've seen how bureaucratic hurdles slow down innovation. Hope this policy framework actually delivers on ease of doing business promises.
A
Arjun K
The mention of quantum, photonic, and blockchain technologies shows we're thinking ahead. But implementation is key - we need to move faster than our neighbors in tech development.
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Sarah B
While the vision is commendable, I hope this doesn't become another policy that looks good on paper but fails in execution. We need accountability mechanisms and clear timelines.
V
Vikram M
Indigenous jet engine development is the real game-changer! If we can master this technology, it will be a massive leap for our air power capabilities. Jai Hind! ✈️
K
Kavya N
Good to see women leaders like Dr. Rajalakshmi Menon contributing significantly to defence technology discussions. More diversity will bring fresh perspectives to our strategic planning.

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