Air Marshal Advocates for Accelerated Self-Reliance in Indian Defense Sector

What's Happening?

Deputy Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal Awadhesh Kumar Bharti emphasized the urgent need for India to accelerate its indigenization efforts in the defense sector. Speaking at the Aero Tech India 2025 event in New Delhi, he highlighted the slow progress from concept to operationalization and stressed the importance of developing domestic capabilities in critical technologies. Bharti pointed out that relying on global partners for niche technologies may not always be feasible, and India must focus on producing secure chips, communication systems, hypersonics, aircraft, and space assets domestically. He also noted the changing nature of warfare, which now includes both low-cost unmanned systems and advanced high-tech platforms powered by artificial intelligence.

Why It's Important?

The push for self-reliance in defense is crucial for India's strategic autonomy and national security. By developing indigenous capabilities, India can reduce its dependency on foreign technology and enhance its ability to respond to future conflicts. This move could also stimulate the domestic defense industry, creating jobs and fostering innovation. The emphasis on indigenization aligns with India's broader 'Make in India' initiative, which aims to boost local manufacturing and technological development. The success of this initiative could position India as a significant player in the global defense market, potentially leading to economic growth and increased geopolitical influence.

What's Next?

India is expected to continue investing in research and development to accelerate the pace of innovation in the defense sector. The government may introduce policies to support the growth of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in defense manufacturing. Additionally, collaborations with international partners for technology transfer and joint ventures could be explored to enhance domestic capabilities. The Indian Air Force's Tejas program, which is projected to create thousands of jobs, exemplifies the potential impact of successful indigenization efforts.