India made significant strides in its defence sector in 2024 under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. The year saw major developments with advanced missile tests, big-ticket defence deals, and state-of-the-art military facilities.
The government’s push for modernising India’s defence system was reflected in the Union Budget 2024-25. The Centre allocated Rs 6.21 lakh crore to the Ministry of Defence, marking a 4.79% rise from FY24. It set aside Rs 1.72 lakh crore for capital outlay, a 20.33% increase from FY 2022-23.
India Enhances Defence with Advanced Missiles and Drones
On March 11, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that DRDO successfully tested the Agni-5 missile under Mission Divyastra. India joined a select group of nations with Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) technology, allowing one missile to hit multiple targets. The Agni-5 has a range of 5,000 km and can strike large parts of Asia and Europe, including China.
India also strengthened its defence ties with the US through a deal worth Rs 32,000 crore. The agreement includes 31 Predator drones for the Navy, Army, and Air Force. These drones can carry Hellfire missiles and bombs, enhancing India’s surveillance and intelligence capabilities.
New Defence Projects and Innovations Fuel Self-Reliance
In October, India inaugurated the Tata-Airbus facility in Vadodara. This plant will manufacture 40 Airbus C-295 aircraft, part of a Rs 21,935-crore deal. These aircraft will support various roles, including medical evacuation and maritime patrol.
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved projects worth Rs 21,772 crore in December. These include 31 new water jet fast attack crafts and 120 fast interceptor crafts for the Navy. The DAC also approved electronic warfare equipment for Su-30 MKI aircraft and six advanced light helicopters for the Coast Guard.
The Indian Army also launched the Signals Technology Evaluation and Adaptation Group (STEAG). This group will focus on researching emerging technologies such as AI, 5G, and quantum computing to boost military capabilities.
In another leap toward self-reliance, the Indian Army inducted 550 ‘Asmi’ machine pistols, developed with DRDO. These pistols will support close combat and special operations.
Looking ahead to 2025, India is set to finalize deals for 26 Rafale-M jets and three Scorpene submarines. The Navy continues to expand its fleet, with 62 ships and a submarine under construction. The focus on cutting-edge technologies remains strong, furthering India’s military self-reliance under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
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