- By Chetna Shree
- Sat, 30 Aug 2025 10:16 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday announced government plans for a major military upgrade, emphasising that Indian Forces would no longer rely on foreign supplies in the current geopolitical times.
Speaking at a conclave, Singh said that the government aims to provide comprehensive aerial security to all important installations across the country over the next decade under the proposed Sudarshan Chakra defence air system. The Sudarshan Chakra air system, he explained, would incorporate both offensive and defensive capabilities to counter a wide range of security threats, news agency PTI reported.
Rajnath Singh Inaugurates Private Aero Engine Test Facility
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh was in Noida to inaugurate a private aero engine test facility. While praising Raphe mPhibr Pvt Ltd's defence equipment and engine-testing facility, he said the facility is a “strong reflection of Aatmanirbhar Bharat."
He further stated that India is on track to develop a powerful indigenous aero-engine, with the preparation nearing completion and execution is expected to begin soon.
While speaking at the event, he called the Sudarshan Chakra a “game-changing” initiative that would play a crucial role in strengthening India’s future security.
Drones Crticial To Modern Warfare: Rajnath Singh
Speaking at the conclave, Singh emphasised that drones have become an essential component of modern warfare strategy, stressing that they must be integrated into India's war policy as well. “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. In today's changing times, drones had emerged as a “significant force” in the field,” Singh was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.
Citing the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Singh highlighted the crucial role drones played on both sides. “If you closely observe the Russia-Ukraine conflict, you will notice that drones have been used extensively - earlier, now, and continuously,” Singh added.
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He also discussed the evolution of drones, recalling how they were earlier used solely for surveillance and reconnaissance. Over time, some countries began developing drones designed for combat, deploying them in border conflicts.
According to Rajnath Singh, countries investing in drone technology gained a significant edge in combat, while those who didn’t had 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,” he said.