India’s naval modernization is advancing rapidly, with a new indigenous warship or submarine joining the fleet every 40 days. Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi outlined plans for over 200 domestically built vessels by 2035, emphasizing self-reliance, strategic partnerships, and technological integration in defense manufacturing.
India’s Zuppa and Divide By Zero Technologies are partnering to create mobile rapid fabrication units for 3D printing and assembling drones at the frontlines. This initiative enhances defence self-reliance, allowing forces to manufacture drones on demand, increasing adaptability and effectiveness in real-time mission scenarios, and positioning India as a global leader in defense innovation.
Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti emphasized the urgency of global maritime cooperation during the Maritime Information Sharing Workshop, addressing threats in the Indian Ocean such as piracy and illegal fishing. He advocated for shared security frameworks and highlighted India’s commitment to regional stability through the MAHASAGAR initiative, fostering trust and collaboration among nations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave 2025 in New Delhi, announcing a INR 100,000 crore RDI Fund to boost India’s research and innovation ecosystem. He emphasized inclusivity, women’s participation, and a commitment to ethical AI. The event aims to inspire new generations of scientists and innovators.
On November 2, 2025, ISRO launched its heaviest communication satellite, CMS-03, enhancing India’s self-reliance in satellite technology. Weighing 4,410 kg, it improves military communication for the Indian Navy and boosts national connectivity. This milestone underscores India’s growing space capabilities, with ISRO planning further launches in the near future.
Olee Space, a Pune-based startup founded in 2023, specializes in cutting-edge photonics, satellite communication, and defense-grade laser technologies. The company aims to create a global satellite mesh network with ultra-high bandwidth and quantum-secure capabilities. Recently securing $3 million in seed funding, it focuses on revolutionizing communication and defense sectors.
Adani Defence & Aerospace received the SIDM Champion Award 2025 for excellence in ammunition design and manufacturing. The award, presented by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, highlights the advanced capabilities of their 500-acre Ammunition Complex in Kanpur. CEO Ashish Rajvanshi emphasized the company’s commitment to enhancing India’s self-reliance in defense production and expanding its manufacturing ecosystem.
The introduction of the Buy (Indian–IDDM) category aimed to promote self-reliance in India’s defense sector. However, a decade later, urgency in procurement, spurred by mechanisms like Emergency Procurement, has diluted original intentions, favoring imports over innovation. Reforms are necessary to ensure genuine support for indigenous defense firms and maintain strategic autonomy.
The Indian Navy plans to enhance its maritime capabilities by inducting 36 new vessels by 2027, contributing to the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative. Significant deliveries include 19 ships in 2026 and 13 in 2027, aimed at strengthening India’s operational readiness and boosting its fleet from 135 to nearly 167 warships, enhancing maritime security.
The Indian Navy aims to finalize the P-75(I) contract for six advanced submarines by March 2026, focusing on local production under the Strategic Partnership model. The MDL-TKMS consortium is the sole contender following technical evaluations, with significant implications for India’s defense self-reliance and capability development in undersea deterrence.
On October 31, 2025, India and the United States signed a pivotal 10-year defence cooperation framework, enhancing military ties significantly. The agreement, signed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth during the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting in Kuala Lumpur, aims to address regional security challenges and strengthen collaborations in defence technology and joint exercises.
Larsen & Toubro (L&T) and General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. (GA-ASI) have formed a strategic partnership to produce Medium Altitude Long Endurance Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems in India. The collaboration aims to fulfill Indian armed forces’ needs, enhance self-reliance, and significantly reduce import reliance through technology transfer and indigenous manufacturing.
On October 28, 2025, the Indian Coast Guard marked significant milestones in its coastal security initiative by laying the keel for the second Fast Patrol Vessel and cutting plates for the fifth at Mazagon Dock. Concurrently, ceremonies for Air Cushion Vehicles were held in Goa, enhancing India’s indigenous shipbuilding and maritime capabilities.
The Indian Army has signed a contract for its first indigenously designed Software Defined Radios (SDRs), developed by DRDO and manufactured by BEL. These advanced SDRs enhance secure communication and operational readiness in network-centric warfare. This initiative aligns with India’s goal of self-reliance in defense technology and lays the groundwork for future military innovations.
India has officially vacated the Ayni air base in Tajikistan following the expiration of its bilateral defense agreement in 2022. Despite discussions for renewal, no extension was made, leading to Tajik forces taking control. This exit is viewed as a significant setback for India amid growing geopolitical pressures in the region.
