In a bold stride towards Atmanirbhar Bharat, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has cleared 28 indigenously-developed weapon systems for immediate procurement by India’s Army, Navy, and Air Force. This move promises to fast-track India’s operational readiness amid ongoing security challenges.
Quick, Tactical Acquisitions Now Possible
Invoking emergency procurement powers recently re-authorized by the government, the armed forces can now swiftly select and deploy critical weapons without delays caused by procedural red tape.
“These emergency powers empower each service to pick what they need based on current threats and tactical demands,” said a senior defence official.
What’s On Offer?
14 Systems for the Army: Rockets, missiles, grenade launchers, anti-drone systems.
8 Systems for the Navy: Naval torpedoes, underwater countermeasures.
6 Systems for the Air Force: Advanced guided munitions, air-defence upgrades.
Both public sector undertakings (PSUs) and private defence firms have been cleared as vendors, allowing seamless ordering and delivery.
Inspired by Operation Sindoor Success
Operation Sindoor—the Indian military’s swift and decisive response to the Pahalgam terror attack—proved the battlefield efficacy of homegrown systems like BrahMos missiles, Akash air defence systems, and the MRSAM. Their success reinforced confidence in DRDO’s technology, prompting this game-changing procurement push.
A Step Towards Strategic Autonomy
This development not only arms the Indian military with cutting-edge tools but also strengthens India’s push for defence self-sufficiency, reducing reliance on foreign imports.
“By prioritising indigenous weapons, India is building a future-ready, self-reliant defence ecosystem,” a Defence Ministry source noted.
