India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized the government’s commitment to self-reliance in ammunition manufacturing. He highlighted the role of the private sector and reported significant growth in domestic production and defence exports. He flagged off a tranche of Pinaka rockets to Armenia and opened a medium calibre ammunition manufacturing plant of Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited in Nagpur.
The Indian Navy and Bharat Electronics Limited developed the Advanced Autonomous Navigation & Control Software, enabling fully autonomous operations of warships, enhancing indigenous defense capabilities and supporting unmanned warfare at sea.
India plans to purchase 114 Rafale fighter jets from France, valued over Rs 3 lakh crore, with the proposal cleared by a defence panel. A contract could be finalized next month.
Bharat Forge Limited secured a INR 300-crore military contract to supply indigenous unmanned systems, enhancing India’s self-reliance in defence. The deal includes advanced drones designed for rapid deployment and modern warfare.
In this interview in New Delhi ahead of Army Day 2026, India’s Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi tells Defence Capital editor N. C. Bipindra about the lessons learnt from global conflicts in Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Hamas, the continuing preparations to meet the growing challenges from China and Pakistan, the adoption of advanced technologies to increase firepower and combat potency, apart from his vision for a future-ready soldier and the army. Here are the excerpts:
The Indian Army is rapidly transforming its strategies and technologies, emphasizing drones, logistics, and integrated operations while enhancing counter-terror capabilities in response to evolving security challenges.
The Indian Army plans to create a ‘Rocket-cum-Missile’ Force to address strategic threats from China and Pakistan. Army chief General Upendra Dwivedi emphasizes modernization and integrated structures for enhanced combat capabilities.
India has launched its first Integrated Battle Groups (IBGs) to enhance offensive capabilities against China, streamlining command structures for rapid deployment in mountain warfare along the northern border.
On January 12, 2026, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz strengthened defense ties, emphasizing mutual cooperation in military training, technology, and counter-terrorism, enhancing India-Germany strategic partnership.
India successfully tested the third-generation Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM), enhancing infantry anti-armour capabilities. Developed by DRDO, it features advanced technology for effective combat against modern tanks.
India’s Ministry of Defence plans to lease four fixed-wing amphibious aircraft to enhance the Navy’s surveillance and rescue capabilities, addressing maritime security challenges along its extensive coastline.
Autonomy in military operations is essential for adapting to complex environments, enhancing decision-making speed, and preserving soldiers’ lives by allowing machines to perform dangerous tasks, while ensuring human oversight remains intact.
India is achieving significant self-reliance in defence, transforming from import dependence to a robust manufacturing base. Defence Secretary Singh emphasizes skill development and industry collaboration for future advancements and strategic autonomy.
India and France are advancing towards a significant deal for Rafale fighter jets to enhance the Indian Air Force, with a focus on local manufacturing under ‘Make in India’ initiatives.
General Anil Chauhan stated that India’s defense spending now enhances economic growth and employment through domestic procurement. He emphasized a shift to intelligent, data-centric warfare and reforming procurement processes to better meet operational needs.
