Defence Secretary Emphasizes Need for Structured Policy Framework to Enhance India’s Domestic Industrial Base
Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh has called for a comprehensive policy framework to bolster India’s domestic industrial capabilities, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors. Speaking at the ‘Strategic Insight Conference on Indigenous Development of Critical Technologies for Air Power’ in New Delhi on October 17, 2025, he highlighted the government’s commitment to achieving self-reliance in defense. Singh underscored the need for advanced technologies and innovation to enhance India’s air power capabilities.
Strengthening the Industrial Base
During his address, Defence Secretary Singh stressed the necessity of diversifying India’s industrial base to eliminate monopolies and improve the ease of doing business. He pointed out that a balanced synergy between public and private sectors is crucial for fostering innovation within the defense ecosystem. Singh reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to Aatmanirbharta, or self-reliance, in defense. He emphasized the importance of developing advanced aerospace technologies, conducting field evaluation trials, and creating long-range air-to-air missile systems to enhance India’s air power capabilities. This strategic approach aims to position India as a formidable player in the global defense landscape.
Advancements in Air Power
Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari, Vice Chief of the Air Staff, delivered a special address highlighting the critical role of air power in achieving strategic objectives, referencing the success of Operation Sindoor. He urged the need for India to not only focus on designing and developing indigenous aircraft but also to gain expertise in electronic warfare, advanced sensors, radars, and data links. Tiwari’s insights reflect the evolving nature of warfare and the necessity for India to stay ahead in technological advancements to ensure national security.
Innovations in Defence Technology
In her keynote address, Dr. K Rajalakshmi Menon, Director General of AERO at DRDO, discussed the transformative potential of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), multi-sensor fusion, and artificial intelligence in air operations. She highlighted advancements in stealth technology, aerostats, and airships equipped with enhanced sensors. Menon also emphasized the integration of cutting-edge technologies such as quantum computing, photonics, and blockchain into defense systems, showcasing the future of air power and its reliance on innovative solutions.
Collaborative Efforts for Self-Reliance
The conference featured a book launch of ‘Asian Defence Review 2025: Geo-political Shifts and Strategic Partnership Multilateralism in the Indo-Pacific’ by the Defence Secretary. It also included multiple technical sessions focused on indigenous jet engine co-development, fighter aircraft programs, unmanned systems, and strengthening the aerospace production ecosystem. Senior officials from the Ministry of Defence, the Indian Air Force, DRDO, and industry leaders convened to discuss India’s path toward technological self-reliance in aerospace and defense, marking a significant step in the nation’s strategic ambitions.
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