Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday led the Consultative Committee for the Ministry of Defence on a visit to the Armament Research & Development Establishment (ARDE), a premier laboratory of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), in Pune. The visit highlighted India’s growing focus on indigenous defence capabilities and emerging technologies.
The delegation reviewed a range of advanced systems developed under the Armament & Combat Engineering Systems (ACE) cluster. Among the major platforms demonstrated were the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System, the PINAKA Rocket System, Light Tank ‘Zorawar’, Wheeled Armoured Platform, and the AKASH-New Generation missile.
Committee members were also briefed on cutting-edge technologies in development, including robotics, rail gun systems, electromagnetic aircraft launch systems, and high-energy propulsion materials. A detailed roadmap for future research and innovation was presented during the session.
Addressing the gathering on the theme “Emerging Technologies and DRDO”, Rajnath Singh underscored the strategic significance of technological advancement in modern warfare. “Today is an era of technological dominance. The nation that prioritises science and innovation will lead the future. Technology is no longer limited to labs; it has become the foundation of our strategic decisions, defence systems and future policies,” he said.
The Defence Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to achieving self-reliance in defence manufacturing. He emphasised that India must not remain a passive user of foreign technologies but emerge as a creator and innovator. “Aatmanirbharta in defence is not just a goal—it is the strongest shield for national security,” he asserted.
Singh pointed out that while access to disruptive technologies is often restricted internationally, India has challenged these barriers through clear intent and strong policies. “India is not only meeting its own needs but is also becoming a trusted defence partner for the world,” he added.
Praising DRDO’s efforts, Singh highlighted how technologies once imported are now being developed domestically. He noted the collaborative ecosystem emerging between DRDO, industry, start-ups, and academia, which is accelerating innovation in fields such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, robotics, quantum communication, and space technology.
Other committee members expressed satisfaction with the ACE cluster’s achievements and urged officials to pursue future goals with greater speed and precision. The Defence Minister assured them that their suggestions would be considered in shaping upcoming policies.
The meeting was attended by Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth; Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan; Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh; Secretary (Defence Production) Sanjeev Kumar; Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat, along with other senior officials, scientists, and members of the ACE cluster.