NOIDA, Aug 30:
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday stressed the need for incorporating drones into war policy, calling them critical to modern warfare strategy.
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“Generally, when we hear the word ‘aircraft’, images of Tejas, Rafale and fighter jets come to mind. This is natural, as these are all combat aircraft. However, in today’s changing times, drones have emerged as a significant force in this field. Drones are now being deployed even in areas where large equipment cannot reach,” he said.
“If you closely observe the Russia-Ukraine conflict, you will notice that drones have been used extensively – earlier, now, and continuously. This proves that understanding the importance of drones and incorporating them into our war policy has become absolutely essential,” Singh added.
He was speaking at the inauguration of Raphe mPhibr Pvt Ltd’s defence equipment and engine-testing facility in Noida. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath was also present at the event.
“A strong reflection of the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat was seen here today,” Singh said after inaugurating the private facility.
Highlighting the history of drones, Singh said that in their early days, they were used only for surveillance and reconnaissance. “Later, some countries began developing combat drones, and many nations started deploying them in border conflicts,” he said.
“Countries that invested in drone technology have gained a significant edge in this field, while many others have been left behind. From my six to six-and-a-half years of experience (as defence minister), I can say that the reality of today’s defence sector rests on aircraft technology and drones,” Singh added.
The Defence Minister further said it was a matter of great pride that India is rapidly advancing in this domain. “Earlier, we had to import drones, but today we are designing, developing, and manufacturing them domestically,” he said.
“Many entrepreneurs in the country are contributing to this progress, and no praise is enough for their efforts,” Singh added.
Meanwhile, Rajnath said India’s defence architecture should not be dependent on any uncertain “foreign interference”, and it should be based on its own capabilities.
He said the Government plans to provide complete aerial security to all important installations across the country under the proposed Sudarshan Chakra air defence system within the next 10 years.
In an address at a Defence Summit, Singh said the air defence shield will comprise both defensive and offensive elements to deal with any enemy threats.
“As we saw during Operation Sindoor, the importance of air defence capability in today’s wars has increased to a great extent. In such a scenario, the Sudarshan Chakra mission will certainly prove to be a game changer,” he said.
In his Independence Day speech, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the ambitious air defence project. The announcement came days after Pakistan army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir reportedly hinted at targeting Indian assets along the border in case of any future military confrontation between the two countries.
Singh said the shifting geopolitics has also made it clear that external dependency in the field of defence is no longer an option. “In the current situation, self-reliance is essential for both our economy and our security,” he said.
“Today, the defence sector is not only the foundation of national security but has also become a pillar in strengthening our economy and securing its future,” the defence minister said.
“It is not just about the safety of people, the protection of land, or the defence of borders, but it is also becoming a responsible sector for the protection and security of our entire economy,” he said.
The Defence Minister, at the same time, said self-reliance and indigenisation should not be seen as “protectionism”.
“In the defence sector, self-reliance is not an issue of protectionism at all; rather, it is an issue of sovereignty. It is an issue of national autonomy. It is an issue of self-confidence,” he said. (PTI)
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