Modern Warfare and Self-Reliance

Modern warfare has shifted from the traditional metrics of large armies and heavy tanks to a focus on integrating low-cost tools with advanced technology. Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi emphasizes that this combination allows smaller forces to effectively challenge more powerful adversaries. He advocates for self-reliance, supported by the military, industry, and academia working together to create indigenous capabilities.

Technology and Adaptability

• Gen Dwivedi stresses that battlefield advantage depends on continually evolving technologies, with weapons systems capable of rapid upgrades.
• Self-reliance goes beyond domestic production; it requires innovation to outpace adversaries.

Budget and Economic Impact

• Projected defence spending for modernization is set to reach Rs 3 lakh crore annually over the next decade.
• Prime Minister Modi's emphasis on "Made in India" systems reflects a significant shift in defence economics and doctrine.

Indian Air Force Modernization

The retirement of the MiG-21 Bison squadrons marks a pivotal moment for the Indian Air Force (IAF), which now faces a gap in combat strength. The Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mark-1A (Mk1A) is intended to address this gap.

• Current combat strength is down to 29 squadrons against a sanctioned strength of 42.
• Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) aims to increase Mk1A production to meet the IAF’s requirements.

Cost Advantage of Homegrown Equipment

• The cost of the Tejas Mk-1A jets averages $74 million, significantly cheaper than imported jets like the Rafale.
• Homegrown systems like the Akash missile and Pinaka rocket launcher offer substantial cost savings compared to Western counterparts.

Naval Platforms

• INS Vikrant, India's first domestically built aircraft carrier, signifies a self-sustaining capability tailored to India’s needs.
• Future plans include integrating advanced technologies into carriers such as the proposed INS Vishal.

Self-Reliance in Emerging Threats

• The Drone-Detect, Deter and Destroy (D4) system, developed by DRDO, enhances national defence capabilities.
• Operation Sindoor demonstrated the effectiveness of indigenous systems like the BrahMos missile and Akash defence system.

Defence Production and Exports

• India's defence exports reached Rs 23,622 crore in FY 2024–25, supporting R&D and production costs.
• The Ministry of Defence aims to manufacture Rs 3 lakh crore of indigenous products over the next three years.

Record Production Growth

• Defence production increased by 18% to Rs 1,50,590 crore in FY 2024–25.
• Public sector units contributed 77% to output, with private sector share rising to 23%.

Overall, India's focus on self-reliance and innovative defence capabilities is reshaping the defence sector, combining cost-effectiveness with enhanced combat abilities. The strategy positions India to adapt and innovate swiftly in modern warfare, marking self-reliance as a strategic advantage.