CDS Chauhan Unveils Vision for India’s Self-Reliant Defense Future

At the launch of the three-day East Tech symposium in Ranchi, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan declared self-reliance, or 'Atma-Nirbharta,' as the cornerstone of India’s strategic autonomy in defense. Highlighting the evolving nature of warfare, he outlined ambitious policy initiatives in cutting-edge fields such as space, artificial intelligence (AI), quantum technology, and advanced materials, signaling India’s intent to lead in global defense innovation.

Gen Chauhan emphasized the need for strategic weapon selection and a robust review of research and development (R&D) to align with modern warfare requirements. “War is both science and art, and a warrior must be creative,” he stated, urging India to foster innovation, inventiveness, and imagination to lead in defense technology. He announced that an integrated capability development plan is in progress, complemented by a 10-year technology capability perspective road map already issued.

The CDS underscored the importance of expanding India’s defense manufacturing base, particularly through the adoption of AI and other modern technologies. While acknowledging that India’s indigenization efforts started late, he expressed confidence in the nation’s trajectory, noting significant progress in weapon systems and network integration. He cited the success of Operation Sindoor, where indigenous systems like BrahMos missiles, Akash surface-to-air missiles, DRDO-developed jamming systems, and secure communication networks were effectively deployed. Private sector contributions, such as Solar Nagastra and DRDO’s IASS systems, have also been seamlessly integrated into military networks, showcasing tangible results from India’s recent efforts.

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Gen Chauhan elaborated on the three pillars of modern warfighting systems: platforms, weapon systems, and networks. While platforms like aircraft, tanks, and ships remain critical, they are costly and require extensive R&D. In contrast, advanced weapons, such as a Rs 50 crore missile capable of destroying a Rs 10,000 crore platform, have emerged as game-changers. Networks, he noted, unify manned and unmanned units across the Army, Navy, and Air Force, with India excelling in indigenous network integration.

The CDS called for threat-driven project selection and a reevaluation of ongoing DRDO projects, particularly those over a decade old, to ensure relevance to contemporary warfare needs. He also advocated for stronger defense diplomacy, involving not only diplomats but also civil servants, military officials, industrialists, and public sector undertaking (PSU) leaders. Collaborative joint ventures and technology transfers, he argued, are essential to accelerate capability development.

Highlighting the transformative potential of new-age technologies, Gen Chauhan stressed the need to fully leverage AI, quantum computing, robotics, and advanced materials. He noted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call to integrate the armed forces into national technology missions and proposed incorporating India’s vast pool of defense graduates into R&D initiatives. Additionally, he emphasized the need for a robust intellectual property regime to protect innovation and encourage young defense innovators.

In a significant announcement, Gen Chauhan revealed that the long-awaited Defence Procurement Manual (DPM) 2025 has been approved and will soon replace the outdated 2009 version, streamlining India’s defense acquisition process.

Gen Chauhan also linked the Centre’s Act East policy to defense self-reliance, highlighting the pivotal role of eastern states like Jharkhand and West Bengal, which he described as industrial powerhouses. “The East symbolizes an auspicious beginning and positive energy,” he said, urging these states to drive India’s defense modernization.

The CDS’s remarks come in the wake of the Combined Commanders Conference in Kolkata, which reaffirmed India’s commitment to 'Atmanirbhar Bharat.' Gen Chauhan described self-reliance as a “compulsion of the day,” essential for achieving strategic autonomy and positioning India as a global leader in defense technology.

As India charts its course toward defense self-sufficiency, Gen Chauhan’s vision underscores the need for innovation, collaboration, and strategic foresight to prepare for future threats using tomorrow’s technology.

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