Strengthening India’s Aerospace Capabilities: Key Insights from the Strategic Insight Conference
A Call for a Comprehensive Policy Framework
Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh has emphasized the necessity for a structured policy framework aimed at enhancing India’s domestic industrial base. He advocates for a balanced synergy between the public and private sectors.
Inaugural Address at Strategic Insight Conference
Singh delivered his inaugural address at the ‘Strategic Insight Conference on Indigenous Development of Critical Technologies for Air Power’, organized by the Centre for Aerospace Power and Strategic Studies (CAPSS) in New Delhi on Friday.
Diversifying the Industrial Base
The Defence Secretary underscored that diversifying the industrial base will help eliminate monopolies, make the business environment more favorable, and foster innovation throughout the ecosystem.
Commitment to Aatmanirbharta
Reiterating the government’s steadfast commitment to Aatmanirbharta, Singh stressed the importance of developing advanced aero technologies, conducting field evaluation trials, and constructing long-range air-to-air missile systems to bolster India’s air power capabilities.
Insights from Air Force Leadership
In a special address, Vice Chief of the Air Staff Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari discussed the critical role of air power in strategic outcomes, citing examples from Operation Sindoor.
Prioritizing Indigenous Development
Tiwari emphasized that, in addition to designing and developing indigenous aircraft, India must also focus on achieving expertise in electronic warfare, advanced sensors, radars, and data links.
The Future of Air Operations
Director General of AERO, DRDO, K Rajalakshmi Menon, delivered the keynote address highlighting the disruptive potential of UAVs, multi-sensor fusion, and artificial intelligence in enhancing air operations.
Advancements in Stealth Technology
Menon spoke about advancements in stealth technology and outlined the importance of aerostats and airships equipped with enhanced sensors.
Integrating Cutting-edge Technologies
She also pointed to the integration of quantum, photonic, and blockchain technologies within defense systems, signaling a shift in how India approaches aerospace challenges.
Leverage AI and Advanced Avionics
DG, CAPSS Air Vice Marshal (Retd) Anil Goldak emphasized the significance of Aatmanirbharta in light of evolving security conditions and growing technological competition in neighboring regions.
The Role of Intelligent Control Propulsion
Goldak stressed the necessity to harness artificial intelligence and advanced avionics, positing that intelligent control propulsion, super-cruise capability, and fly-by-light systems will shape the future of India’s aerospace dominance.
Publication Launch during the Conference
As part of the event, the Defence Secretary unveiled a book titled ‘Asian Defence Review 2025: Geo-political Shifts and Strategic Partnership Multilateralism in the Indo-Pacific’.
Expert Discussions in Technical Sessions
Multiple technical sessions were held, focusing on indigenous jet engine co-development, fighter aircraft programs, unmanned systems, and fortifying the aerospace production ecosystem.
Collaboration Among Key Stakeholders
The conference provided a platform for senior officials from the Ministry of Defence, the Indian Air Force, DRDO, and industry leaders to unite in discussions about India’s trajectory toward technological self-reliance in aerospace and defense.
Conclusion
The Strategic Insight Conference highlighted the importance of collaboration and innovation in the advancement of India’s defense capabilities. With an unwavering commitment to Aatmanirbharta and strategic focus on cutting-edge technologies, India is poised for a robust future in aerospace.
Questions and Answers
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What was the main focus of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh’s address?
He emphasized the need for a structured policy framework to strengthen India’s domestic industrial base through a balanced synergy between public and private sectors.
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What specific technologies did Singh mention as important for enhancing air power?
He stressed the development of advanced aero technologies, field evaluation trials, and long-range air-to-air missile systems.
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What insights did Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari provide in his address?
Tiwari highlighted the significance of air power in strategic outcomes and emphasized the need for expertise in electronic warfare and advanced sensors.
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What advancements did K Rajalakshmi Menon discuss in her keynote address?
She discussed UAVs, multi-sensor fusion, artificial intelligence, stealth technology, and advancements in sensor-equipped aerostats and airships.
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What notable publication was released during the conference?
The Defence Secretary unveiled the book ‘Asian Defence Review 2025: Geo-political Shifts and Strategic Partnership Multilateralism in the Indo-Pacific’.
