Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, Chief of the Indian Air Force (IAF), has emphasised the critical need for India to increase its self-reliance in defence industry, particularly in view of China’s fast gains in military technology and infrastructure. During a conference on January 7, 2025, he stated that China’s development of powerful fighter planes and military capabilities is a big challenge, emphasising the need for India to strengthen its own defence research and development (R&D) activities.
Singh emphasised that China is not just increasing its military capabilities, but also fast developing new stealth fighter planes and other advanced technology. This rise demands a deliberate response from India to ensure its regional competitiveness.
The IAF head emphasised that India’s security policy must focus on self-reliance, notably through programs such as “Make in India.” He contended that depending on foreign suppliers for essential military equipment might expose weaknesses, particularly amid geopolitical crises when supply lines could be interrupted.
Singh added, “If you need to fight a war, you have to have them (weapons) being manufactured in India,” emphasising the need of domestic production for operational preparedness and sustainability.
To attain these objectives, Singh called for more private-sector engagement in military production. He stated that competition among suppliers might boost innovation and efficiency in India’s aerospace sector, which has traditionally been dominated by public sector enterprises.
He stated, “Technology delayed is technology denied,” advocating for a more aggressive approach to R&D schedules and risk acceptance in order to stay up with worldwide achievements.
The IAF chief’s words reflect a larger realisation among India’s military establishment of the need to adapt to a shifting security situation marked by fast technology developments from enemies such as China. India hopes to increase its military capabilities and assure preparation against future threats by emphasising self-reliance and encouraging private sector participation in defence production.
