Pune: Raksha Mantri Mr. Rajnath Singh led the Consultative Committee on Defence to the Armament Research & Development Establishment (ARDE), Pune, a premier armaments lab under DRDO’s ACE cluster.
During the visit, committee members were shown a suite of cutting-edge defence systems developed by ARDE and allied labs. These include the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System, PINAKA Rocket System, Light Tank “Zorawar”, Wheeled Armoured Platform, and the AKASH-New Generation missile.
Also highlighted were ongoing work in robotics, railgun systems, electromagnetic aircraft launchers, and high-energy propulsion materials. Officials also presented a future roadmap for the ACE cluster.
Emerging Tech: More Than Just Gadgets, It’s National Security
Speaking to the delegation, Mr. Rajnath Singh underlined that in today’s landscape, emerging technologies are no longer optional—they’re essential. He asserted that India must not only use, but also create advanced tech.
He further clarified that Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) in defence is not merely a target but is, in his words, “the strongest shield for national security.”
He cautioned that India cannot rely on imported disruptive technologies indefinitely, noting occasional protectionism and technology restrictions by other nations. According to him, India’s clarity of intent and consistent policy have already yielded self-reliance gains.
A Partnership Ecosystem: DRDO, Industry & Startups
Beyond the technology showcase, the visit reinforced how DRDO is dovetailing efforts with industry, academia, and startups to build a robust defence ecosystem.
Official accounts show that in 2024 alone, DRDO inked over 2,000 technology transfer agreements and issued more than 200 production licenses—a significant boost to indigenous defence manufacturing.
These moves align well with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s push for an Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence, encouraging private sector involvement and reducing import dependence.
During the meeting, committee members lauded ACE cluster’s achievements and urged more systematic acceleration of future plans. Raksha Mantri assured that member suggestions would be duly factored in.
Why This Visit Matters And What It Signals
Strategic affirmation: The visit signals renewed political will to accelerate defence R&D and push indigenisation forward.
Technology depth: Systems like AKASH-New Generation and robotic & electromagnetic platforms point to India’s embrace of next-generation warfare.
Industry mobilisation: DRDO’s increasing tech transfers and collaborative development is bridging the civil–military divide.
Export potential: As India matures in defence innovation, it positions itself as a reliable partner for friendly nations.
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