Indian Defence
India maintains its position as the world's fourth-largest defense spender in
2023, following only the United States' commanding lead in military
expenditure. The nation's strategic pivot is evident in its robust capital outlay
growth, which outpaces other defense segments. Most notably, the post-
pandemic era has marked a transformative shift in India's defense
landscape- while dependency on foreign military imports has plateaued since
FY22, domestic defense exports have charted an impressive upward trajectory.
This dual trend of reduced import reliance and growing export capabilities
signals a significant milestone in India's journey toward defense self-reliance
and modernization.
India's aspiration to become a global power necessitates the modernization of
its defense forces, driven by both strategic ambitions and security
threats from its neighborhood. Unresolved border disputes with China and
Pakistan, terrorism in Jammu & Kashmir, insurgency in the North East, Left-
Wing Extremism (LWE), and the growing challenge of urban terrorism all
compound India's security challenges. To effectively address these threats and
prepare for modern warfare, India must equip its military
with advanced, cutting-edge weaponry.
India's growing defense sector, driven by indigenization and self-reliance, has
thrust the nation into the global arms market, raising important legal and
ethical issues. The Supreme Court's dismissal of a case against arms exports
to Israel, despite allegations of war crimes, exposed a gap in India's legal
framework, as there is no clear requirement to assess the International
Humanitarian Law (IHL) compliance of recipient nations. Unlike countries like
the Netherlands and the UK, India's current regulations, including the Foreign
Trade Act, lack provisions for IHL reviews, raising concerns about its
commitment to international law.
As India aspires to be a major arms exporter, establishing comprehensive
legislation that mandates IHL compliance reviews would not only safeguard
India's reputation but also support global efforts to prevent the misuse of
weapons. Clear guidelines for defense manufacturers would further ensure
ethical standards in the indigenization process, aligning India's defense
ambitions with its international obligations.
India consistently navigates enduring and significant challenges to its national
security and sovereignty. The creation of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) in
2019 was intended to enhance overall combat efficiency and prepare for new
emergencies shaped by the techno-strategic churn, but its trajectory so far
has been mixed.
Recent reports suggest consideration of new posts like Vice CDS and Deputy
CDS to support the CDS's multiple roles. Along with this, the current
imperative is increased integration among India's three armed forces,
ensuring seamless collaboration, unified strategies, and enhanced operational
effectiveness.
What are New Security Challenges for India?
Emerging Technologies:
Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI in military applications can
manipulate early warning systems, and develop new weapons.
Synthetic Biology: Combination of biology, engineering, and
technology can design and develop biological weapons or even new life
forms with harmful effects.
Cybersecurity: Cyberattacks can debilitate critical infrastructure such
as nuclear facilities, military systems, and intelligence networks.
Autonomous Weapons:
Lethal Autonomous Weapons (LAWs): LAWs can
independently identify, target, and engage threats without human
intervention using AI and machine learning.
Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs): They are capable of military
surveillance, mine detection, scientific research, and underwater
mapping.
Hypersonic Missiles: Hypersonic weapons can avoid radar detection and
adjust their own path, making them hard to defend against.
Space Warfare: Space militarisation could disrupt or destroy satellite
systems and other space based services like communication, navigation
systems etc.
Terrorism: Drones can bypass traditional defence systems surveillance,
targeted attacks, or the delivery of explosives.
Geopolitical Tensions: China-US tensions, Ukraine War, nuclear threats in
hotspots like Korea and the South China Sea can have significant
implications for regional stability.
Environmental Security: Rising temperatures, sea-level changes, and
extreme weather events can lead to new security challenges, including
the displacement of populations and resource-based conflicts.
Global Security Architecture: The traditional dominance of the United
States is being challenged by the rise of China.
It could lead to a power vacuum, encouraging instability in various
regions, especially in the Middle East, Africa, and Eastern Europe.
Two-Front Threat Scenario: India faces the prospect of potential
simultaneous conflicts with China and Pakistan, given the ongoing
border tensions and unresolved territorial disputes.
The Galwan Valley clash with China in 2020 and the frequent
ceasefire violations by Pakistan along the Line of Control
(LoC) most recently in November 2023 underscore the need for
coordinated military preparedness on both fronts.
Hybrid Warfare and Cross-Border Terrorism: The challenge of hybrid
warfare, which combines conventional and unconventional means,
including cross-border terrorism, requires a comprehensive and multi-
dimensional response.
In 2020, the Indian government banned several mobile applications,
including TikTok, citing national security concerns and their potential
use for hybrid warfare tactics.
Maritime Security and Blue-Water Ambitions: As India seeks to establish
itself as a maritime power with global reach, it requires a strong,
integrated maritime strategy involving the Navy, Coast Guard, and other
agencies.
The Indian Ocean Region, with its critical sea lines of communication
and energy supply routes, demands a robust and coordinated naval
presence and maritime domain awareness.
China's growing naval presence and influence in the IOR, including
acquisition of the Hambantota port in Sri Lanka and the establishment
of a naval base in Djibouti, poses a strategic challenge to India's
maritime interests.
Force Modernization and Capability Development: Effective force
modernization and capability development require a holistic approach that
considers the requirements of all three services, avoiding duplication and
ensuring interoperability.
The acquisition of new platforms, such as the Rafale fighter jets or
the Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC), necessitates joint training and
integration with other service components.
Space Security and Counter-Space Capabilities: With India's increasing
reliance on space-based assets for various military and civilian
applications, ensuring space security and developing counter-space
capabilities has become crucial, necessitating a coordinated effort from
the Armed Forces.
In 2019, the Defence Research and Development Organisation
(DRDO) conducted 'Mission Shakti', neutralizing a satellite in space
with an anti-satellite (ASAT) missile as part of the Indian Ballistic
Missile Defence Programme.
Arctic and Antarctic Operations: As global climate change opens up new
opportunities and challenges in the Arctic and Antarctic regions, India has
recognized the need to develop joint defense capabilities for operations in
these hostile environments.
Current Scenario of the Defence Sector
Airforce: India is gradually moving toward indigenisation in the defence
sector, it is only now that India has got its own indigenous
aircraft, Tejas.
India is lagging behind in manufacturing of its own engines, avionics
and self-sufficient radars.
A lot of progress in design and development of different parts of
aircrafts has been made but when it comes to a compact aircraft
system or a weapon system, India is a seeker not a manufacturer.
Army: The Indian army is still woefully short on looking upon manufacturing
of armaments like tanks.
India has made a great breakthrough in terms of artillery guns but the
technological edge required to modernise its equipment has not been
touched yet.
Navy: The navy ought to be given more importance than it has been given
as of now as there are immense challenges at the sea; the biggest threat
is China.
The Navy has very serious capability gaps; as per the Maritime
Capability Perspective Plan by 2027, India ought to have about 200
ships but there is still a lot to cover to reach the target.
However, the cause is not mainly funding but procedural delays or
some self imposed restrictions.
However, the navy ensures that it has state of the art SONARs and
Radars. Also, many of the ships contain a high amount of indigenous
content.
India is now among the top 25 defence exporters globally.
Defence exports from India surged from 2,059 crore in 2015-16 to 15,920
crore in fiscal year 2022-23, marking a remarkable 23-fold increase.
India, previously known as a defence equipment importer, now exports a
variety of major platforms including aircraft, artillery guns, missiles,
rockets, radars, simulators, and armoured vehicles.
Notable indigenous products contributing to exports include LCA-Tejas,
Light Combat Helicopters, Aircraft Carriers, and MRO activities, with
rising global demand.
India exports defence equipment to around 85 countries.
The government aims for a defence export target of 40,000 crores by
2024-25.
Defence production value surpassed one lakh crore rupees for the first
time in fiscal year 2022-23.
Government initiatives and reforms aim to promote indigenous design,
development, and manufacture of defence equipment by Indian Industry,
including MSMEs and start-ups.
Initiatives like Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX), Technology
Development Fund (TDF), and Make procedure under Defence
Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2020 encourage participation of MSMEs and
start-ups.
Special provisions in DAP 2020 support MSMEs and start-ups.
Public Procurement Policy for Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs)
Order, 2012, implemented at DPSUs, grants price preference to MSME
bidders under certain conditions.
DPSUs and services have uploaded over 30,000 defence items on the
'Srijan portal for indigenisation' for industry partnership, including
MSMEs.
What are the Key Issues Related to India’s Defence
Sector?
Persistent Dependence on Imports: India remains one of the world’s
largest arms importers, undermining its strategic autonomy in defense
preparedness.
With an 11% share of total global arms imports, India was the world's
biggest importer of major arms in 2018–22.
For instance, the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war has disrupted the supply
of S-400 missile systems, exposing vulnerabilities in India’s
dependency on external suppliers for critical assets.
Delays in Procurement: India’s defense procurement process is marred by
bureaucratic inefficiencies, resulting in significant delays in acquiring
advanced weaponry.
The Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), for example, took decades to
move from concept to induction, highlighting systemic inefficiencies.
Similarly, the Project 75(I) submarine acquisition for the Navy,
critical for countering China in the Indian Ocean, has faced repeated
delays, leaving operational gaps.
Outdated Inventory: A significant portion of India’s defense inventory is
outdated, compromising operational efficiency and combat readiness.
For instance, the Indian Army’s tank fleet still includes T-72 tanks,
which are over 40 years old and technologically obsolete.
Similarly, the Bofors howitzers, inducted in the 1980s, remain the
mainstay of artillery, despite advancements in modern artillery
systems.
Insufficient Indigenous Manufacturing Capacity: Despite the push for self-
reliance under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, India’s defense
manufacturing ecosystem remains underdeveloped, especially for critical
technologies like engines and sensors.
For example, India still relies on General Electric (GE) for jet engines
for its LCA Tejas, reflecting a gap in core technology capabilities.
While defense production increased to ₹1.27 lakh crore in 2023-24, it
still lags behind global standards in terms of innovation.
Inadequate Budget for Modernization: India’s defense budget allocation,
though increasing, is skewed toward revenue expenditure (salaries,
pensions), leaving limited room for modernization.
According to SIPRI, India’s military expenditure reached USD 83.6
billion in 2023, making it the fourth-largest defense
spender globally.
The US leads in defense spending at USD 916 billion (3.4% of GDP),
followed by China at USD 296 billion (1.7% of GDP) and Russia at USD
109 billion (5.9% of GDP).
Together, salaries and allowances at 30.68% and pensions at 22.7%,
together, account for 53.38% of total defence expenditure under the
current budget
Leaving inadequate funds to address modernization needs given the
rapidly evolving security environment, especially in the Indo-Pacific.
Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities in Defense Infrastructure: India’s growing
reliance on digital systems exposes critical defense infrastructure to cyber
threats.
In 2013, reports indicated that Chinese hackers breached DRDO's
systems, stealing sensitive electronic files related to the Cabinet
Committee on Security (CCS) and transferring them to a server in
Guangdong, China.
While initiatives like CERT-In aim to address such threats, India lags
behind global peers like the U.S. in cybersecurity readiness, posing
risks to sensitive data and systems.
Lack of Joint Command Structure: The absence of a unified command
structure hampers interoperability between the Army, Navy, and Air Force,
affecting joint operations.
Despite the creation of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) in 2020,
theater commands remain unimplemented.
For example, during the 2020 Galwan Valley standoff, a lack of
seamless coordination among forces delayed optimal deployment
strategies.
Weak Domestic R&D Ecosystem: India spends less than 1% of its defense
budget on R&D, significantly lower than global standards.
Institutions like DRDO have struggled with delays in delivering key
projects, such as the development of Arjun tanks and Kaveri engines,
forcing reliance on foreign technology.
The gap in indigenous innovation is a critical roadblock to achieving
technological independence.
Limited Skilled Workforce in Defense Manufacturing: India faces a shortage
of skilled personnel in advanced fields like robotics, AI, and precision
manufacturing, which are essential for next-gen defense systems.
The Skill India initiative, though promising, has not adequately
addressed the specific needs of the defense sector, slowing the
growth of domestic manufacturing and innovation.
Geopolitical Challenges in Defense Diplomacy: India’s reliance on Russian
arms poses risks amidst evolving geopolitical dynamics, especially with
increasing U.S.-Russia tensions.
Simultaneously, India’s maritime security remains under strain
as China expands its naval presence in the Indian Ocean, including the
deployment of surveillance vessels in the region.
Addressing these dual challenges requires robust diplomatic and
defense strategies.
Limited Private Sector Participation: While private sector participation
in defense manufacturing has increased, it still faces significant
challenges.
According to data from the Department of Defence Production,
private sector companies contributed only 22% in FY24.
Barriers include high entry costs, long gestation periods for
returns on investment, and preference often given to public sector
units for major contracts.
The dominance of Defense Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) in
major projects continues to limit opportunities for private players.
Lack of Robust Arms Export Control Legislation: India's arms export
control framework, primarily governed by the Foreign Trade Act
1992 and the Weapons of Mass Destruction Act 2005, lacks specific
provisions for assessing the human rights records or IHL compliance of
recipient countries.
This legislative gap was highlighted when the Supreme Court
dismissed a PIL seeking to stop defense exports to Israel amid
allegations of war crimes in Gaza.
India's laws do not mandate a comprehensive review of the end-
use of exported arms.
This absence of stringent checks could potentially implicate
India in international law violations and damage its reputation
as a responsible arms exporter.
Lack of National Security Strategy (NSS): The absence of NSS creates
a gap between political intentions and military operations, undermining
the alignment of defense strategies with national policies.
It has resulted in a lack of preparedness against emerging
threats like those from China and Pakistan.
Short-term Policy: The Agnipath scheme has been criticized for
its short 6-month training period, raising concerns about recruits'
readiness for real combat.
The 4-year service period risks losing experienced personnel,
potentially impacting the army's capability and morale.
What are the Key Strides in India’s Defence
Modernisation?
Transforming Indigenous Defense Manufacturing: India is
strategically transitioning to a self-reliant defense ecosystem by
bolstering indigenous production and reducing reliance on imports.
Policies like the Defence Acquisition Procedure
(DAP)-2020%20was%20promulgated%20in%202002.) mandate
prioritization of domestic procurement, driving this transformation.
In 2023-24, domestic defense production hit a record ₹1.27 lakh
crore, a 16.7% rise from the 2022-23 and 75% of the ₹1,40,691
crore capital procurement budget for 2024-25 was reserved for
indigenous products, including advanced weapon systems.
Surge in Defense Exports:The Indian government has implemented
significant policy reforms to boost defense exports, including the
introduction of the [Defence Production and Export Promotion Policy
(DPEPP) 2020](https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-news-analysis/draft-
defence-production-and-export-promotion-policy-2020).**
This policy aims to achieve a turnover of USD 25 billion in defense
manufacturing by 2025, including exports of USD 5 billion.
The government has also streamlined licensing procedures,
increased FDI limits to 74% under the automatic route, and introduced
schemes like 'Make in India' and 'Atma Nirbhar Bharat' to promote
indigenous manufacturing.
Record 75% of the defense capital procurement budget was earmarked
for domestic industry in FY 2023-24, up from 68% in 2022-23.
Domestic defense production has also seen a strong performance,
reaching ₹1.27 trillion in FY 2024.
Recently, the Ministry of Defence has notified the fifth Positive
Indigenisation List (PIL) consisting of 346 items, further boosting
domestic defense manufacturing.
The Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the Defence Export
Promotion Scheme in India establishes guidelines and procedures for
certification and testing of defense exports
Strategic Defence Partnerships: India is strategically partnering with global
defense leaders to bridge critical technological gaps and co-develop
advanced platforms.
The Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders' collaboration with Thyssenkrupp
Marine Systems for Project P-75(I) submarine and the US-India INDUS-
X initiative for co-developing AI and hypersonic technologies are
examples of strategic collaborations.
In 2023, India and France agreed to jointly produce aero engines,
demonstrating a commitment to high-tech indigenization.
Breakthroughs in Missile Technology and Tactical Systems: India’s missile
programs exemplify its progress in achieving strategic autonomy and
enhanced deterrence.
The induction of the 'Pralay' tactical missile provides battlefield
flexibility against adversaries.
Furthermore, the successful tests of the Agni Prime missile in 2024,
with improved precision reinforce India's long-range strike
capabilities, showcasing significant advancements in defense
technology.
Expanding Defense Industrial Corridors for Regional Growth: The
establishment of Defense Industrial Corridors in Tamil Nadu and Uttar
Pradesh exemplifies India’s focus on regional development and
manufacturing capacity.
These corridors aim to attract ₹20,000 crore in investments. Tamil
Nadu’s corridor alone is expected to have secured ₹11,794 crore in
commitments as of 2024, with major players like L&T setting up
manufacturing units, driving regional defense innovation.
Focus on Space and Cybersecurity Defense: India is integrating space and
cybersecurity into its defense strategies to address emerging threats.
The establishment of the Defense Space Agency and the planned
deployment of satellites for surveillance and communication reflect
India's evolving priorities.
Gaganyaan mission in 2025 for potential military applications and CERT-
In's cybersecurity initiatives to protect sensitive defense networks
showcase readiness in non-traditional domains.
Implementation of Positive Indigenization Lists: The government has
accelerated indigenization by implementing five Positive Indigenization
Lists, banning their import post-specified deadlines.
This initiative has driven innovation, with components like the K9 Vajra
artillery systems and LCA Tejas parts now indigenized.
The success of these lists highlights India’s ability to replace imports
with high-quality domestic products, significantly reducing dependence
on foreign suppliers.
Strengthening Anti-Piracy and Maritime Capabilities: India is enhancing its
naval power to address piracy and protect maritime interests, especially in
the Indo-Pacific region.
The induction of INS Vikrant, India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier,
into the Navy in 2023 showcases growing maritime prowess.
Patrol vessels like the Sumedha class are regularly deployed to critical
regions like the Gulf of Aden, reflecting India's commitment to regional
security.
Network-Centric Warfare: The Indian Army is enhancing its capabilities
through integration of network-centric operations for real-time data
sharing and coordinated responses across services. Projects undertaken
under this are:
Project Sanjay: Establishes a Battlefield Surveillance System with
multiple centers, integrating sensors for comprehensive situational
awareness linked to the Artillery Combat Command and Control System
(ACCCS).
Project E-Sitrep: It develops an enterprise-class GIS platform for
situational reporting, starting with the Northern Command.
Cyber Warfare Capabilities: Strengthening cyber capabilities to protect
critical infrastructure and counter cyber threats. It includes initiatives
such as:
National Cyber Security Policy: The National Cyber Security Policy aims
to safeguard cyberspace, develop capabilities to prevent and respond
to cyber attacks, and minimize damages through coordinated efforts
across institutional structures, people, processes, and technology.
Cybersecurity Legislation is for enacting laws to
address cybercrimes and establish clear legal frameworks for data
protection and incident reporting.
CERT-In (Indian Computer Emergency Response Team) is a central
agency responsible for collecting, analyzing, and disseminating
information on cyber incidents.
Artificial Intelligence and Robotics: In the defense sector, AI-based
technologies are used for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance
(ISR) operations.
These AI-based technologies are used for various functions
including training, surveillance, logistics, cybersecurity, Unmanned
Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), and advanced military weaponry like Lethal
Autonomous Weapon Systems (LAWS).
iDEX: Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) is a government
initiative to modernize the Defence Industry, launched in April 2018.
It aims to promote innovation and technology development in
Defence and Aerospace by engaging Industries, MSMEs, start-
ups, individual innovators, R&D institutes, and
academia, providing them with funding and other support for
Research & Development.
As a result, as against 215 Defence licenses issued till 2014,
the number of Defense licenses issued went up to 440 by
March 2019.
Notable examples include Tata Advanced Systems Limited's export
of aerospace components to Boeing.
This increased participation has led to a more diverse and
competitive defense manufacturing ecosystem, driving innovation
and export growth.
India has also established two Defence Industrial Corridors - one in
Uttar Pradesh and another in Tamil Nadu.
Strategic Road and Rail Networks: India is building road and rail
networks in border areas for rapid troop and equipment mobilization.
These include initiatives such as:
Comprehensive Integrated Border Management System (CIBMS)
Integrated Check Posts (ICPs)
Border Infrastructure and Management (BIM) Scheme
Tri-Services agencies have been established, comprising:
Armed Forces Special Operation Division (AFSOD)
AFSOD facilitates coordinated planning, development, and
utilization of Special Forces across land, air, and maritime
sectors.
Defence Space Agency (DSA)
DSA serves as the central entity for coordinating defense-related
space endeavors across all three branches of the military.
Defence Cyber Agency (DCA)
DCA focuses on defense-oriented cyber activities and was
established in 2018 to enhance synergy and cooperation in cyber,
space, and special operations domains.
These agencies aim to achieve greater efficiency, coordination, and
jointness within the armed forces, particularly in the realms of special
operations, space defense, and cybersecurity.
Offset Policies and Technology Transfer: India's offset policy, which
requires foreign defense companies to invest a portion of their contract
value in India, has played a crucial role in promoting exports.
This policy has led to the establishment of joint ventures and
technology transfers, enhancing India's manufacturing capabilities and
export potential.
For example, the Tata-Lockheed Martin joint venture to produce F-16
wing sets in India has not only served the offset requirements but also
positioned India as a part of the global supply chain.
What are India's Initiatives in Promoting Emerging
Technologies?
Artificial Intelligence (AI):
AIRAWAT (AI Research, Analytics, and Knowledge Dissemination
Platform): AIRAWAT provides a common compute platform for AI
research across various sectors, facilitating access for technology
hubs, start-ups and research labs.
IndiaAI Mission: The IndiaAI Mission aims to democratise AI access,
develop indigenous AI capabilities, and attract top AI talent through
initiatives like AI Compute Capacity, and AI Innovation Centers.
Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI): India is a founding
member of GPAI, an initiative focused on the responsible development
of AI with an emphasis on human rights, inclusion, and innovation.
Internet of Things (IoT): IoT Centres of Excellence have been established
at Bengaluru, Gurugram, Gandhinagar, and Visakhapatnam to support
start-ups and enterprises in IoT, Big Data, AI, and Robotics.
Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality (VR/AR): The Centre of
Entrepreneurship for Virtual and Augmented Reality (VARCoE) has been
established at IIT Bhubaneswar for VR/AR innovation and skill
development.
Blockchain Technology: National Strategy on Blockchain has been
formulated to create a secure, transparent digital service delivery to
citizens and businesses.
Robotics: An Inter-Ministerial Committee for Robotics was constituted to
support the domestic robotics industry.
Quantum Technology: National Mission on Quantum Technologies and
Applications (NMQTA) was launched to develop intermediate-scale quantum
computers with 50-1000 physical qubits in 8 years.
What Measures can India Adopt to Enhance Defense
Modernisation?
Streamlining Procurement Processes for Timely Acquisitions: India must
reduce delays in defense procurement by revising and simplifying
the Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP)-2020, ensuring faster decision-
making and contract finalization.
A single-window clearance system for acquisitions can help eliminate
bureaucratic inefficiencies.
Implementing AI-driven procurement systems can further optimize
timelines and enhance transparency.
Increasing Budget Allocation for Capital Expenditure: Allocating a higher
percentage of the defense budget to modernization is essential to address
critical capability gaps.
Enhanced funding can expedite the induction of advanced platforms like
the LCA Tejas Mark II and S-400 missile systems, crucial for
maintaining technological parity with adversaries.
Strengthening Indigenous Defense Manufacturing via Schemes
Integration: Combining the Make in India and PLI (Production Linked
Incentive) schemes can incentivize domestic manufacturing of critical
technologies like engines, avionics, and sensors. ‘
By linking these schemes, India can encourage private players and
startups to co-develop cutting-edge technologies while reducing
reliance on imports.
Expanding Global Partnerships for Technology Transfer: India should deepen
collaborations with technologically advanced nations to co-develop defense
platforms.
For instance, partnerships like the India-US Defense Acceleration
Ecosystem (INDUS-X) have opened avenues for acquiring critical
technologies like AI and hypersonics.
Such collaborations can enable local production of advanced systems
while addressing technology gaps.
Establishing Robust Cyber and Space Defense Capabilities: Given the
growing threats in cyberspace and outer space, India must prioritize the
development of dedicated cyber defense and space command units.
Strengthening the CERT-In framework and enhancing partnerships with
global leaders like the US in space warfare can address
vulnerabilities.
Implementing Joint Theater Commands for Enhanced Interoperability: India
must fast-track the implementation of joint theater commands to integrate
the Army, Navy, and Air Force for seamless operations.
Theater commands will enhance resource utilization and enable
coordinated responses to challenges like the China-Pakistan nexus.
Leveraging Startups and MSMEs through the iDEX Scheme: Expanding the
scope of the iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence) initiative can bring
innovative startups into the defense ecosystem.
Engaging over 200 startups has already led to the development of 14
viable technologies.
By linking iDEX with the Defence Industrial Corridors, MSMEs can gain
the infrastructure and support needed to scale production of cutting-
edge technologies like UAVs and precision-guided munitions.
Modernizing the Navy to Address Indo-Pacific Challenges: India should
prioritize the modernization of its naval fleet to counter China’s growing
influence in the Indo-Pacific region.
The induction of platforms like INS Vikrant and future Project 75(I)
submarines is essential for maintaining maritime dominance.
Boosting naval capabilities can also support India’s SAGAR (Security
and Growth for All in the Region) vision by ensuring the security of
critical sea lanes.
Enhancing Export Capabilities through Focused Policies: India should aim to
become a major defense exporter by focusing on globally competitive
platforms like the BrahMos missile and Akash air defense systems.
Streamlining the export approval process and engaging with global
buyers through defense expos can expand India’s market share.
Achieving the ₹35,000 crore export target by 2025 will also enhance
India’s defense industry’s global reputation.
Developing Skill Ecosystems for Defense Manufacturing: India must invest
in creating a skilled workforce specializing in robotics, AI, and advanced
manufacturing for defense production.
Linking the Skill India Mission with the defense sector can address
this gap by creating dedicated training programs.
For example, upskilling initiatives in the Defence Industrial Corridors of
Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh can ensure a steady supply of skilled
workers.
Focusing on R&D to Foster Indigenous Innovation: Increasing R&D
expenditure in defense to at least 5% of the budget can boost innovation
and reduce dependency on imports.
Institutions like DRDO should be partnered with private firms for co-
development of critical technologies like jet engines and hypersonic
missiles.
Promoting Green Technology in Defense: Integrating green technologies into
defense can reduce environmental impact and enhance operational
efficiency. Initiatives like developing electric-powered military
vehicles and energy-efficient bases can align with global sustainability
goals.
Collaborations with domestic firms under the SRIJAN portal can further
ensure that eco-friendly innovations are indigenously developed and
deployed.
Engaging the Private Sector:
There is a need to create opportunities for the private
sector and protect their investments. Given the high costs of
weapon system development, clarity in government
policies and support for Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) are
essential to mitigate financial risks for private companies.
The private sector's contribution to defense production in 2023-
24 was 20.8%, up from 19% in 2022-23, which needs to be
increased further.
Enhancing Role Clarity: There is a need to streamline the existing
distribution of roles between the CDS and the three service chiefs,
ensuring a clear delineation of command and control channels.
Also, the potential creation of the positions of Vice Chief of
Defence Staff (VCDS) and Deputy Chief of Defence Staff (Dy
CDS) presents an opportunity to streamline and enhance the
effectiveness of the Chief of Defence Staff institution.
Integrated Theatre Commands: The long-pending implementation of
integrated theatre commands, aimed at promoting jointmanship and
resource optimization, must be prioritized.
The government has recently announced the Inter-Services
Organisations (Command, Control, and Discipline) Act, signaling the
initiation of creating unified theatre commands is a significant step in
this direction.
Cross-Service Rotational Assignments: Implementing cross-service
rotational assignments for officers and personnel across the Army, Navy,
and Air Force.
This initiative exposes individuals to different operational
environments, fosters mutual understanding, and promotes
collaboration between the services.
It also helps in breaking down cultural barriers and promotes a unified
perspective on defense operations.
Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) Fusion Centers: Establish OSINT fusion
centers that aggregate and analyze publicly available information from
diverse sources, including social media, news outlets, academic research,
and satellite imagery.
Applying advanced data analytics, natural language processing (NLP),
and geospatial intelligence to generate actionable insights, early
warning indicators, and threat assessments for defense planning and
operations.
Quantum-Secure Communications Network: Develop a quantum-secure
communications network that leverages quantum
cryptography and quantum key distribution (QKD) protocols.
This network ensures highly secure and unbreakable communication
channels for joint military operations, intelligence sharing, and critical
infrastructure protection, safeguarding against cyber threats and data
breaches and reintegrating India’s defense forces.
UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions
(PYQs)
Prelims
Q.What is “Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD)”, sometimes seen in
the news? (2018)
(a) An Israeli radar system
(b) India’s indigenous anti-missile programme
(c) An American anti-missile system
(d) A defence collaboration between Japan and South Korea.
Ans: (c)
Q. In the context of the Indian defence, what is ‘Dhruv’? (2008)
(a) Aircraft-carrying warship
(b) Missile-carrying submarine
(c) Advanced light helicopter
(d) Intercontinental ballistic missile
Ans: (c)
Q. Which one of the following is the context in which the term “Qubit” is
mentioned?
(a) Cloud Services
(b) Quantum computing
(c) Visible light communication technologies
(d) Wireless Communication Technologies
Ans: (b)
Q. With the present state of development, Artificial Intelligence can effectively
do which of the following?(2020)
1. Bring down electricity consumption in industrial units
2. Create meaningful short stories and songs
3. Disease diagnosis
4. Text-to-Speech Conversion
5. Wireless transmission of electrical energy
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1, 2, 3 and 5 only
(b) 1, 3 and 4 only
(c) 2, 4 and 5 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
Ans: (b)
Q1. Which one of the following is the best description of ‘INS Astradharini’,
that was in the news recently? (2016)
(a) Amphibious warfare ship
(b) Nuclear-powered submarine
(c) Torpedo launch and recovery vessel
(d) Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier
Ans: (c)
Q2. Consider the following in respect of Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS):
(2017)
1. Inaugural IONS was held in India in 2015 under the chairmanship of the
Indian Navy.
2. IONS is a voluntary initiative that seeks to increase maritime co-operation
among navies of the littoral states of the Indian Ocean Region.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Ans: (b)
Q. Department of Border Management is a Department of which one of the
following Union Ministries? (2008)
(a) Ministry of Defence
(b) Ministry of Home Affairs
(c) Ministry of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways
(d) Ministry of Environment and Forests
Ans: (b)
Q. Consider the following in respect of Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS):
(2017)
1. Inaugural IONS was held in India in 2015 under the chairmanship of the
Indian Navy.
2. IONS is a voluntary initiative that seeks to increase maritime co-operation
among navies of the littoral states of the Indian Ocean Region.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Ans: (b)
Q Which one of the following is the best description of ‘INS Astradharini’, that
was in the news recently? (2016)
(a) Amphibious warfare ship (b) Nuclear-powered submarine (c) Torpedo
launch and recovery vessel (d) Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier
Ans: (c)
