Tech Desk: India is set to emerge as a significant global defence exporter within the next 25 to 30 years, declared Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, emphasizing that nations with robust indigenous defence capabilities forge their own destiny. Speaking at Shirdi, Maharashtra, Singh inaugurated a private sector defence manufacturing complex and flagged off the first batch of ‘Suryastra’ universal rocket launchers, marking a pivotal step towards self-reliance.

The rollout of ‘Suryastra’ from Nibe Ltd’s new facility, part of a Rs 293-crore procurement order, highlights India’s accelerating shift from a heavy importer to a producer of advanced weapon systems. This transformation is further bolstered by increased private sector participation, now at 25-30% and projected to reach nearly 50% soon, signalling a dynamic ecosystem fostering innovation and growth.

Singh also underscored the launch of a modern artillery shell manufacturing facility and a missile complex, reflecting India’s comprehensive push in defence production. Maharashtra, with its approved defence corridor and hubs in Nashik, Pune, and Nagpur, is rapidly becoming a leading manufacturing hub. The ‘Suryastra’ system, featuring “shoot-and-scoot” capability and precision-guided rockets, demonstrates India’s technological prowess.

With plans for significant investment and job creation by companies like Nibe Group, India is not just manufacturing for its own forces but actively building capacity to fulfill global demand. This strategic pivot positions India to become a formidable India defence exporter, rewriting its role on the international stage and ensuring national security through self-sufficiency.