Key Takeaways
- India is advancing indigenous defense technologies, including hypersonic missiles and next-gen fighter aircraft.
- The DRDO is developing new variants of the BrahMos missile and upgrading air-to-air and air-to-ground missile systems.
- The Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) is set to counter the Pakistan-China air threat, with plans for 120 aircraft by 2035.
Advancements in Indigenous Defense Technologies
India is making significant strides in indigenous defense technologies, focusing on enhancing its military capabilities across various domains. Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Chairman of the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO), outlines key projects aimed at improving India’s strategic deterrence.
A priority is the BrahMos missile, co-developed with Russia, which currently launches from Su-30MKI fighters. The DRDO is working on a next-gen variant, BrahMos-NG, which is lighter and smaller to increase deployment flexibility across various fighter platforms.
In the hypersonic weapons domain, India is developing both a cruise missile and a glide vehicle, with the latter at a more advanced stage. Dr. Kamat indicated that developmental trials for the glide vehicle could be completed within two to three years, while the hypersonic cruise missile awaits government approval for further development.
To enhance missile capabilities, the DRDO is also upgrading the Astra air-to-air missile with new variants, Mk-2 and Mk-3. The Rudram series of air-to-ground missiles is undergoing similar upgrades.
Under the Kusha program, India is developing long-range surface-to-air missiles, known internally as ‘Sudarshan Chakra,’ parallely working on directed energy weapons to neutralize drone threats.
For mobile artillery, the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) is being adapted into a mobile version, supported by defense firms like Tata and L&T. Additionally, the Zorawar light tank, built for high-altitude deployment near the China border, aims for induction of 354 units into the Indian Army.
On the naval front, DRDO is developing torpedoes and naval mines, with many systems nearing induction, indicating short-term deployment readiness.
The Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project is another crucial initiative aimed at countering the potential acquisition of stealth aircraft by Pakistan from China. The AMCA is set to take around ten years for completion, with plans for the Indian Air Force to procure six squadrons.
Dr. Kamat emphasized the importance of future weapon systems operating autonomously, citing lessons learned from Operation Sindoor. The focus is on creating systems capable of functioning without GPS or external communication, aligning with India’s strategy for increased self-reliance and operational flexibility in defense capabilities.
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