Rajnath Singh Unveils Sudarshan Chakra Air Defence Plan, Stresses Self-Reliance in Defence
Defence Minister highlights indigenous aero-engine project, rising exports, and drone warfare strategy amid global tariff tensions
New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday said India cannot afford to rely on uncertain foreign supplies in an era of terrorism, regional conflicts and tariff wars, stressing that self-reliance in defence is vital to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty and strategic autonomy.
Speaking at the Defence Summit, Singh announced that the government plans to provide complete aerial security to all critical installations within the next 10 years under the proposed Sudarshan Chakra air defence system, which will feature both defensive and offensive elements. He described the initiative as a “game-changing” step for India’s future security, citing lessons from Operation Sindoor to highlight the importance of indigenous systems in modern warfare.
The defence minister also revealed that India has taken up the challenge of developing a powerful indigenous aero-engine, with preparations for the project almost complete. On August 23, the DRDO successfully tested an integrated indigenous air defence weapon system that struck three targets simultaneously, he noted.
Amid strains in trade ties with the US, Singh criticised protectionist measures by some developed nations. “India seeks no enemies but will not compromise its interests. The more pressure the world applies, the stronger India emerges,” he said, asserting that self-reliance in defence is not protectionism but sovereignty.
Singh said India’s transformation from a defence importer to exporter is visible in the rise of defence exports from under Rs 700 crore in 2014 to nearly Rs 24,000 crore in 2025. Domestic defence production has crossed Rs 1.5 lakh crore, with 25 per cent contribution from the private sector. “Defence is not mere expenditure, it is defence economics — a driver of jobs, innovation and industrial growth,” he added.
Underscoring the evolving nature of warfare, Singh stressed the incorporation of drones into India’s war policy, calling them critical to modern combat. Inaugurating Raphe mPhibr Pvt Ltd’s defence equipment and engine-testing facility in Noida, alongside Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Singh said drones, once used only for surveillance, are now central to warfare strategies, as seen in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
“Earlier we had to import drones, but today we are designing, developing and manufacturing them domestically,” Singh said, praising Indian entrepreneurs and start-ups for their contribution to the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
