The inaugural day of Aero India 2025 saw a significant turnout at the Indian Army’s stalls, showcasing the nation’s increasing focus on enhancing its defence capabilities and promoting self-reliance. A central feature of the exhibition was the Army’s impressive advancements under the initiative titled “Manufacture of Ammunition for Indian Army by Indian Industry,” a pioneering effort backed by the Government of India.
A notable achievement highlighted during the event was the Indian Army’s remarkable progress in indigenising 88% of its ammunition needs. This achievement represents a substantial reduction in reliance on foreign imports and marks a significant step towards realizing the Aatmanirbhar Bharat mission aimed at fostering self-sufficiency in India’s defense sector.
The event was graced by senior military officials, including Lieutenant General MV Suchindra Kumar, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Northern Command, and Lieutenant General ADS Aujla, Master General Sustenance. Additionally, dignitaries from both India and abroad attended, underscoring global interest in India’s indigenous manufacturing capabilities in defence.
These military leaders received comprehensive briefings on various strategic initiatives aimed at:
– Reducing import dependence for vital ammunition supplies
– Enhancing operational readiness through self-sustained logistics and local production
– Encouraging defence innovation through collaborations with private industries and research institutions
Several key factors have contributed to the success of this indigenisation effort:
– The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has played a crucial role by providing advanced research and facilitating technology transfer for developing state-of-the-art ammunition systems.
– Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) have established a strong manufacturing infrastructure and rigorous quality assurance processes.
– The private industry has significantly contributed to the drive for innovation, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness in the production of ammunition.
This achievement aligns seamlessly with India’s broader strategic goal of attaining autonomy in defence production while also promoting indigenous technologies on global platforms such as Aero India. It also positions India as a credible defence exporter, capable of fulfilling both its domestic operational requirements and international demands.
Looking to the future, India’s commitment to expanding its defence manufacturing capabilities reflects its dedication to not only becoming self-sufficient and technologically adept but also to ensuring operational preparedness for the challenges ahead. This initiative signifies a crucial step in building a robust defence ecosystem that places India at the forefront of global defence manufacturing.
