North News
New Delhi, November 12
India is aiming to become the global hub for drone technology, with several initiatives underway, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced on Tuesday. Speaking at the inaugural Delhi Defence Dialogue (DDD), Rajnath Singh highlighted the transformative impact of drones and swarm technologies on modern warfare, which are reshaping defense strategies.
The Defence Minister emphasised that the drone sector would not only boost India’s economy but also contribute to the government’s Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiatives. He pointed out the country’s ongoing efforts to enhance research and development, facilitate intellectual property creation, and offer rewards for innovation through schemes like iDEX and ADITI.
Rajnath Singh stressed the need for a collaborative approach to contemporary defense challenges, given the growing involvement of both state and non-state actors. He noted that emerging issues such as cyber threats, AI, and quantum technologies require shared knowledge and strategies. “Collaboration is key in today’s geopolitical climate, where the ambiguity of cyberspace and AI further demands collective action,” he stated.
The Defence Minister also introduced the concept of ‘adaptive defense,’ a strategy designed to evolve continuously in response to new threats. This proactive approach, he explained, aims not just to react but to anticipate and prepare for future challenges. “Adaptive defense is not a choice; it’s a necessity,” Rajnath Singh said, underscoring the importance of resilience, agility, and technological integration in countering evolving threats.
Rajnath Singh further discussed the complex security landscape, noting India’s multifaceted challenges, from traditional border threats to issues like terrorism, cyber warfare, and hybrid conflicts. The government has introduced reforms such as the creation of the Chief of Defence Staff role and the promotion of joint training among the armed services to address these challenges.
Rajnath Singh also highlighted the growing importance of psychological warfare in the age of digitisation and information overload, emphasizing the need for strategies to combat information warfare. He reaffirmed India’s commitment to leading in emerging technologies such as AI, stressing that a country of India’s scale must be equipped to manage global innovations in defense.
The Defence Minister expressed confidence that the DDD platform would foster strategic partnerships and innovative solutions to strengthen India’s defense posture. He outlined key steps already taken, including the Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020, the creation of Defense Industrial Corridors, and increased foreign direct investment in the sector.
India’s defense exports have seen a significant rise, with the country now exporting to over 100 nations, including the USA, France, and Armenia. The goal is to achieve Rs 50,000 crore in defense exports by 2029.
The DDD serves as a critical forum for discussing defense and security challenges, bringing together policymakers, military leaders, and experts to share perspectives and solutions.
