New Delhi: At a webinar on August 17, the Army Vice Chief, SK Saini said that self-reliance in the defence sector is the top priority for the government. Developing indigenous capabilities is a must for facing security challenges.
Lieutenant General, SK Saini attended a webinar at the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI). During the webinar, he assured the Indian Army’s commitment to ‘Make in India’ initiative.
SK Saini also assured that the Army is more than ready to fight with indigenous equipment. However, the equipment and weapons must pass severe tests and follow the strict delivery timelines. Also, it is very important to equip the Army with the best weapons and systems to fight its adversaries.
The Army is taking many indigenous initiatives to boost up the self-reliance in the defence sector. The projects include 3rd Generation anti-tank guided missiles, tank ammunition, and combat vehicle upgrades. The initiative also includes precision ammunition, drone kill system, and a variety of radars.
The government has also imposed a ban on about 101 types of weapons and ammunition. The list includes assault rifles, combat helicopters, transport aircraft, and missiles. The list also includes sniper rifles, missile destroyers, a variety of radars, and many more.
The initiative to ban imports on weapon systems will provide a push to self-reliance in the defence sector.
Raj Kumar, Secretary of Defence production also attended the webinar. He said that the government is working on the second negative import list of defence items.
The government has also prepared a roadmap to export the indigenously-developed weapon systems. The Defence Production and Export Promotion Policy (DPEPP) has set a target of achieving a turnover of Rs. 1,75,000 Crore by 2025. It includes the export of Rs. 35,000 Crore in aerospace and defence goods.