The Consultative Committee for the Ministry of Defence, chaired by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh, visited the Armament Research & Development Establishment (ARDE) in Pune a premier laboratory of DRDO under the Armament & Combat Engineering Systems (ACE) cluster. The visit highlighted India’s rapid strides towards technological self-reliance and indigenous defence manufacturing.
Inspection of Advanced Indigenous Systems
During the visit, the committee inspected several state-of-the-art defence systems developed by DRDO’s ACE cluster. Demonstrations included the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), PINAKA Rocket System, Light Tank ‘Zorawar’, Wheeled Armoured Platform, and the AKASH-New Generation Missile. Officials also presented updates on cutting-edge technologies in Robotics, Rail Gun, Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch Systems (EMALS), and High-Energy Propulsion Materials. A detailed future roadmap of the cluster’s R&D priorities was also discussed.
‘Emerging Technologies are a Necessity, Not a Choice’
Addressing the committee on the theme ‘Emerging Technologies and DRDO’, Shri Rajnath Singh underscored the importance of innovation and adaptation in modern warfare. “Today is an era of technological dominance. The nation that prioritises science and innovation will lead the future,” he stated.
He emphasised that technology now forms the foundation of India’s strategic and defence decisions, adding that the government is fully committed to integrating advanced technologies into the nation’s security architecture.
From Users to Creators of Technology
Highlighting the need for India to move beyond dependence on foreign systems, the Raksha Mantri said, “We should not only be the users of technology; we should also be the creators. To achieve this, there is a need to accelerate our self-reliance efforts. Aatmanirbharta in defence is not just a goal, it is the strongest shield for national security.”
He also warned that global protectionism often restricts access to disruptive technologies, but asserted that India has challenged such limitations through clear intent and bold policies. “India is not only meeting its own needs but is also becoming a trusted defence partner for the world,” he remarked.
Empowering the R&D Ecosystem
Shri Rajnath Singh lauded DRDO’s efforts in developing technologies that were once imported and now stand at par with global standards. He said India’s R&D landscape has evolved into a national movement, involving industry, academia, and start-ups. “DRDO, public sector enterprises, private industries, start-ups, and academia are together setting new benchmarks in defence innovation,” he said, highlighting young innovators working on AI, cyber security, robotics, quantum communication, and space technology.
Committee’s Feedback and Way Forward
Members of the Consultative Committee expressed satisfaction with the progress and achievements of DRDO’s ACE cluster, providing valuable suggestions for future policy directions. Shri Rajnath Singh assured that their inputs will be duly considered.
The meeting was attended by Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh, Secretary (Defence Production) Shri Sanjeev Kumar, DRDO Chairman Dr Samir V Kamat, senior MoD officials, and scientists of the ACE cluster.
