New Delhi, May 29 (H.S.): Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh has raised significant alarms regarding persistent delays in defence projects, highlighting Operation Sindoor as a remarkable achievement for the nation. He emphasized that in light of today’s global challenges, 'self-reliance' emerges as the only viable solution and urged the need for forward-looking preparations. The Navy Chief echoed similar sentiments, noting the evolving landscape of warfare and the daily emergence of new technologies. During the CII Annual Business Summit, both military leaders articulated their frustrations over defense project timelines and completion delays.
Air Chief Marshal Singh pointed out a historical skepticism towards Indian industry which led to an outward orientation for defense requirements, but he noted a transformational change in the past decade, making 'self-reliance' paramount. He underscored the lack of timely completion for defense projects, questioning why contracts are signed with unrealistic promises that cannot be fulfilled, resulting in operational inefficiencies. Emphasizing the importance of indigenization post-Operation Sindoor, he called for initiating design and development efforts within India.
He praised Operation Sindoor as a symbol of national victory, crediting the collective efforts of the armed forces and citizens in fighting terrorism. The operation featured targeted strikes against nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, showcasing a new era of warfare through advanced technology integration. The Air Chief asserted the indispensable role of air power in military operations, underlining the need for sustained investments in research and development (R&D).
Moreover, he referenced the Punjabi concept of 'Dasvandh,' advocating that a portion of earnings be returned to society in the form of investments for R&D and national defense. Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, the Navy Chief, remarked on the rapidly changing dynamics of warfare, emphasizing the necessity of realigning strategic thinking to meet future needs. He noted the approval of the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) for private industry participation, reflecting the growing trust in Indian industry.
The Admiral elaborated on the blurring lines between war and peace, highlighting non-traditional threats and the emerging importance of space, cyber domains, and non-contact warfare as critical components of modern conflict. Both leaders expressed a unified vision of a self-reliant and technologically advanced defense system, with a commitment to enhancing national security capabilities.
Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
