Defence

New Delhi, 29 May 2026: The iconic Indian Air Force formation aerobatic team, the Suryakiran Aerobatic Team, marked its 30th Anniversary at Air Force Station Bidar on 26 May 2026. The occasion commemorated three glorious decades of inspiring the nation through precision aerobatics and exceptional airmanship. The celebrations were graced by the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, and Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Training Command, Air Marshal S Shrinivas. In a special highlight of the event, CAS and AOC-in-C flew with the team during the commemorative aerial display. A poignant “Hollow Diamond” formation was flown in remembrance of the brave team members the Suryakiran Aerobatic Team lost during its illustrious journey. The tribute reflected the deep camaraderie, courage and enduring spirit that define the team. Since its formation in 1996 at Bidar, the team has enthralled millions across India and abroad with over 800 air displays, symbolising the pride, precision and professionalism of the Indian Air Force. Flying the Hawk Mk-132 aircraft in its iconic red-and-white livery, SKAT continues to inspire generations while upholding its motto – “Sadaiva Sarvottam” – Always the Best. (Courtesy: PIB/MoD)

Delhi, 20th March 2026: “India must work in a mission mode to emerge as a global hub of indigenous drone manufacturing in the next few years,” said Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh as he stressed on the urgent need to build a drone production ecosystem to ensure strategic autonomy, enhance defence preparedness and make the country Aatmanirbhar in view of the present geopolitical uncertainties. He was addressing MSMEs, start-ups, winners of Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX), Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs), private defence companies, innovators, policymakers, and academia during the inaugural session of the two-day National Defence Industries Conclave, organised by the Department of Defence Production on the theme ‘Advanced Manufacturing Technologies’ at Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi on March 19, 2026. Raksha Mantri asserted that the ongoing conflicts, ranging from the Russia-Ukraine war to the tensions between Iran & Israel, are proof that drones and counter-drone technologies are destined to play a pivotal role in future warfare, and self-reliance in drone manufacturing is essential not merely at the product level, but at the component level as well. “From the drone’s molds to its software, engines, and batteries, everything must be manufactured in India. This is no easy task. In most countries where drones are manufactured, a significant number of critical components are currently imported from China,” he said. Rajnath Singh added that while the creation of any nation’s defence industrial ecosystem relies on the contributions of large industries, MSMEs, start-ups, and innovators, it is equally driven by a clear policy push from the government, tailored to meet the country’s specific defence requirements. While he called for active contribution of the private sector, he extended Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi-led Government’s full support to transform India into a global hub for indigenous drone manufacturing. As part of the inaugural session, Raksha Mantri launched the 14th edition of Defence India Start-up Challenge (DISC-14) and the 4th edition of ADITI challenges under the iDEX framework. A total of 107 problem statements, including 82 under DISC-14 & 25 under ADITI Challenges 4.0, from the Defence Forces, Indian Coast Guard and Defence Space Agency were launched to promote breakthrough innovations in various domains. A new initiative featuring 101 innovation challenges from DPSUs was also launched by Raksha Mantri to encourage design-led innovation by MSMEs and start-ups. These challenges are funded by DPSUs, which will also provide mentorship, testing facilities and opportunities for potential integration into their supply chains to the winning start-ups. Rajnath Singh described iDEX and ADITI (Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX as game-changer initiatives, through which start-ups, innovators, and MSMEs are provided with the opportunity to develop novel solutions to meet the specific requirements of the Defence Forces. “As of February 2026, approximately 676 start-ups, MSMEs, and individual innovators have joined the defence innovation ecosystem since the inception of iDEX in 2018. 548 contracts have been signed; and 566 challenges launched. Of these, 58 prototypes have received clearance for procurement, valued at around Rs 3,853 crore. Furthermore, 45 procurement contracts have already been signed, worth nearly Rs 2,326 crore. These figures demonstrate that innovation is gradually materialising into tangible products & technologies, and the role played by our start-ups & MSMEs in this transformation is steadily gaining strength,” he said. Raksha Mantri emphasised that MSMEs are today actively engaged in fields such as Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Automation, and Advanced Manufacturing, representing a monumental and positive transformation. He termed it as imperative for the MSMEs and start-ups to embrace and integrate these technologies to ensure the optimal utilisation of their resources and capabilities. “In the contemporary landscape, innovations such as Automation, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and Additive Manufacturing are reshaping the global manufacturing sector. Furthermore, technologies like ‘Digital Twins’ and advanced simulation tools are unlocking a host of new possibilities. A ‘Digital Twin’ essentially involves creating a virtual model of a real-world system. Such technologies empower us to better comprehend complex systems and facilitate more informed decision-making,” he said. Rajnath Singh added that ‘integration’ is another crucial concept for the enhancement of MSME capabilities. “This integration can be achieved in two distinct ways: Horizontally and Vertically. Horizontal integration implies that MSMEs from diverse sectors connect with one another, learn from each other’s experiences, and collaborate. Vertical integration signifies that MSMEs partner with large-scale industries, engage with emerging technological domains, and cultivate expertise in fields such as Artificial Intelligence, Automation, Robotics, and Additive Manufacturing. Our MSMEs must advance towards the adoption of Industry 4.0. It is when both horizontal and vertical integration occur simultaneously that a robust innovation ecosystem is established,” he said. Highlighting the numerous initiatives undertaken by the Government to strengthen the MSMEs, Raksha Mantri stated that a three-pronged approach has been introduced in this year’s Union Budget to provide MSMEs with Equity, Liquidity, and Professional support, thereby enabling them to emerge as ‘Champion MSMEs’. The objective is to accelerate the growth of MSMEs, and enhance their competitiveness in both domestic and international markets, he said. Shri Rajnath Singh pointed out that since 2014, the Government has consistently prioritised and focused on the expansion of this “vital” sector. To simplify the registration and identification of MSMEs, digital platforms such as the Udyam Portal and the Udyam Assist Portal have been launched. The objective is to integrate small industries into the formal economy, thereby ensuring that they receive the benefits of government schemes.” he said. He added that the number of MSMEs in the country stood at approximately 4.67 crore in 2012-13, and the figure has reached nearly 08 crore, according to recent data. This growth, he said, demonstrates the continuous rise in the spirit of entrepreneurship within the country, and small industries are now playing a significant role in driving economic growth. “We see start-ups serving as catalysts for social change through their truly unique ideas, while others attain the coveted status of a ‘Unicorn’ within an incredibly short span of time. In the near future, many more will emerge as the next generation of ‘Unicorns’. All that is required is consistent

ew Delhi, 20th February, 2026: Embraer and the Mahindra Group has announced plans to work towards establishing Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) capability in India for the C-390 Millennium upon selection in the Indian Air Force’s Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) program. The two companies signed a strategic cooperation agreement (SCA) in October 2025 to produce the C-390 Millennium multi-mission military transport aircraft in India. This collaboration aims to support the Indian Air Force’s Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) program, with plans to establish local manufacturing strengthening the ‘Make in India’ initiative. The C 390 Millennium is the most modern military transport aircraft in its class, offering a payload capacity of up to 26 tons and higher speed and range compared to other medium sized military transport aircraft. It is capable of performing a wide range of missions, including cargo and troop transport, airdrop operations, medical evacuation, search and rescue, firefighting, and humanitarian missions. The aircraft can operate from temporary or unpaved runways and may be configured for air to air refuelling, both as a tanker and as a receiver. The in service fleet has demonstrated a mission completion rate above 99 percent, highlighting its productivity and reliability. The proposed MRO facility will provide comprehensive in country maintenance and sustainment for the C 390 fleet, supporting high levels of operational readiness and availability. The initiative reinforces the companies’ joint commitment to positioning the C 390 Millennium as a strong solution for India’s future medium transport aircraft requirements. “Embraer is committed to delivering not only a world class aircraft, but also a robust, long term support ecosystem tailored to India’s operational and industrial requirements,” said Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security. “A state of the art C 390 Millennium MRO capability in India would ensure high aircraft availability, enhanced operational autonomy and a comprehensive local sustainment solution for the Indian Air Force throughout the aircraft’s lifecycle,” said Vinod Sahay, Member of the Group Executive Board, Mahindra Group. The proposed MRO capability is expected to deliver a full spectrum of services, including base and heavy maintenance, structural inspections and testing, component repair and overhaul, avionics support, and training. “Embraer and Mahindra, intends to expand collaboration with Indian Aerospace companies to drive higher localisation of C-390 Millenium and also to support MRO activities, reinforcing our commitment to the Government of India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative and the vision of “Atmanirbhar Bharat”, said Carlos Naufel, President and CEO of Embraer Services & Support of Embraer. “In addition to fleet support, this new facility could create high skill employment and further contribute to the integration of Indian companies into Embraer’s global supply chain.” While the primary objective of the MRO is to support the Indian Air Force fleet, Embraer is also evaluating the potential for India to serve as a regional MRO hub, providing sustainment services for other C-390 Millennium operators in the future.

Bengaluru, February 19, 2026: Navratna Defence PSU Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) and Safran Electronics and Defense (SED), France, signed a Joint Venture Agreement (JVA) to establish a Joint Venture Company (JVC) for the production of Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range (HAMMER) Smart Precision Guided Air-to-Ground Weapon in India. The operationalisation of the provisions of JVA is subject to regulatory and administrative approvals of both the countries. BEL and SED also signed a Master Production Agreement (MPA), which sets out the terms of cooperation for transfer of production of HAMMER in India. The agreements were signed by Manoj Jain, CMD, BEL, and Alexander Ziegler Executive Vice President and Defence Director, Safran Electronics & Defense, in the presence of Shri Rajnath Singh, Hon’ble Raksha Mantri of India, and Ms Catherine Vautrin, Hon’ble Minister of the Armed Forces and Veteran Affairs of France, during the 6th India-France Annual Defence Dialogue in Bengaluru. The JVC, with equal shareholding between BEL and SED, will focus on the manufacturing, supply and maintenance of HAMMER to meet the operational needs of Indian Air Force and Indian Navy. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the spirit of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’, aiming to reduce import dependency and strengthen India’s indigenous defence capabilities. The transfer of production will happen in a phased manner ensuring a stabilised production line in India. The indigenisation level will progressively increase with key sub-assemblies, electronics and mechanical parts being manufactured locally. This agreement underscores BEL’s commitment to strengthening India’s defence industrial base and aims at leveraging SED’s extensive experience in manufacturing of smart precision guided air-to-ground weapon. HAMMER is a combat-proven, precision-guided weapon system known for its high accuracy and modular design, making it adaptable for multiple platforms, including the Rafale and LCA Tejas.

Delhi, 12th February 2026: Ministry of Defence has signed a contract with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Transport Aircraft Division, Kanpur for the acquisition of eight Dornier 228 Aircraft along with Operational Role Equipment for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) at a cost of Rs 2,312 crore under Buy (Indian) category. The contract was signed in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh in New Delhi on February 12, 2026. The programme is expected to generate significant direct & indirect employment by strengthening the HAL’s production ecosystem and supporting a broad network of MSMEs & ancillary industries. It will also create sustained opportunities in Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul and life cycle technical support. The contract reinforces the Government’s commitment to Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make-in-India while bolstering India’s maritime security architecture. Courtesy: PIB/MOD

Tel Aviv, 12th February, 2026: Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has delivered the 350th F-35 fighter aircraft wing to Lockheed Martin, marking a significant milestone in the long-standing F-35 program. The wing was produced and assembled using advanced and innovative technologies at IAI’s facilities. This milestone was marked during a special ceremony held at IAI’s F-35 wing assembly line, attended by senior Israeli government officials, including Israel’s Minister of Defense, as well as senior management from Lockheed Martin and IAI. Lockheed Martin’s F-35 is the world’s most advanced stealth fighter aircraft, operated by the U.S. Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps, as well as the Israeli Air Force and numerous militaries worldwide. It is operationally active with the Israeli Air Force, where it plays a significant role in missions across multiple arenas, contributing directly to Israel’s aerial security and national defense. Israeli Minister of Defense, Israel Katz said, “The delivery of the 350th F-35 fighter jet wing marks a significant milestone. The strategic alliance between Israel and the United States is more than a partnership, it is a deep and enduring friendship rooted in shared values. Together, we are stronger, as demonstrated time and again in recent months, most notably during the historic Operation Rising Lion and Operation Midnight Hammer, which dealt a devastating blow to Iran’s nuclear program. This strength will guide us in facing any future challenge. Thanks to U.S. President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the bond between our nations is stronger than ever and will stand firm against any test ahead. I extend my sincere appreciation to the employees of IAI and our partners at Lockheed Martin for making this achievement possible.” U.S. Ambassador in Israel, Mike Huckabee said “The delivery of the 350th F-35 wing is a powerful symbol of the ironclad partnership between the United States and Israel. This is more than a manufacturing milestone; it’s a testament to our shared commitment to security through technological excellence. When Israeli innovation and American industry collaborate, the result is unmatched capability that strengthens both our nations. We are proud to stand with IAI and Lockheed Martin in celebrating this remarkable achievement.” Vice President of Operations, Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, Nick Drazic said,“The ongoing success of the F-35 program is enabled by a network of dedicated suppliers like IAI around the world. For four decades, IAI has been a collaborative, innovative and reliable partner, ensuring Lockheed Martin’s fighter aircraft deliver the capability our customers need to maintain peace through strength.” President and CEO of IAI, Boaz Levy said,”The delivery of the 350th F-35 wing is a testament to the strength of IAI’s long-standing partnership with Lockheed Martin and the broader defense and aerospace collaboration between Israel and the United States. This milestone reflects decades of close cooperation with American industry, built on shared values, advanced technological capabilities and a mutual commitment to supporting critical defense programs.” VP and GM of IAI Aviation, Yaacov Berkovitz said, “This milestone reflects the day-to-day cooperation between IAI Aviation and Lockheed Martin across the F-35 wing assembly line. Since 2014, our teams have consistently delivered high-quality wings through advanced manufacturing methods and disciplined assembly processes. Reaching the 350-wing mark demonstrates the strength of our production capabilities and the dedication of our team”. IAI has been producing the F-35 wings since 2014, playing an instrumental role in the F-35 program. The strategic collaboration between IAI and Lockheed Martin dates back to the late 1980s, reflecting decades of trusted partnership, technological cooperation and a shared commitment to mission success. ( News published unedited on the basis of press release)

New Delhi, February 3, 2026: Adani Defence & Aerospace, the flagship defence and aerospace arm of Adani Enterprises Ltd and a frontrunner in India’s defence sector, today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Leonardo, the global leader in defence, aerospace, and security. This landmark partnership will establish a fully integrated helicopter manufacturing ecosystem in India, addressing surging military demands and propelling the nation toward self-reliance in helicopter production. Targeting the Indian Armed Forces’ requirements, particularly for Leonardo’s advanced AW169M and AW109 TrekkerM helicopters, the collaboration will deliver phased indigenization, robust maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capabilities, and comprehensive pilot training. By fusing Leonardo’s world-class helicopter design and engineering prowess with Adani Defence’s end-to-end defence and aerospace expertise, the initiative advances the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision, strengthens national defence readiness, with the potential to be extended to civil aviation applications and international supply chain integration. This ecosystem promises transformative economic impact: thousands of high-skill jobs in engineering, manufacturing, logistics, and sustainment services, while cementing India as a competitive hub for helicopter production. Jeet Adani, Director, Adani Defence & Aerospace, stated: “This alliance with Leonardo is a pivotal stride toward a resilient, future-proof helicopter ecosystem in India. Merging global  excellence with our industrial momentum, we will drive enduring value, high-skill Company General Use employment, and alignment with Aatmanirbhar Bharat to position India as a global aerospace powerhouse.” Ashish Rajvanshi, CEO, Adani Defence & Aerospace, added: “With the Indian Armed Forces projecting demand for over 1000 helicopters in the coming decade, this partnership realizes our vision for sovereign manufacturing. It will accelerate indigenization, strengthen supply chains, and establish India as a world-class production base.” Gian Piero Cutillo, Managing Director, Leonardo Helicopters, affirmed: “We’re extremely pleased to join forces with Adani to provide our contribution to India’s vision for an even stronger and growing role of their rotorcraft industry, and to enable the country to access the level of modern technology and operational capability it deserves. We look forward to making progress in this endeavour, leveraging our complementary expertise to deliver the best solutions.” This strategic partnership redefines India’s aerospace landscape, strengthening defence autonomy and position the country as a trusted global hub for helicopter manufacturing and sustainment.

Adani Defence & Aerospace and Embraer announce a strategic partnership to develop, manufacture, and sustain the regional transport aircraft ecosystem in India New Delhi, Jan 27, 2026: In a move to give boost to Indian Aviation, Embraer and Adani Defence & Aerospace have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop an integrated regional transport aircraft ecosystem in India. The companies aim to collaborate on opportunities in aircraft manufacturing, supply chain, aftermarket services, and pilot training. The collaborative industrial partnership will aim to establish an assembly line, followed by a phased increase in indigenization to advance India’s Regional Transport Aircraft (RTA) program, in alignment with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative and the UDAN regional connectivity vision. “India is a pivotal market for Embraer, and this partnership combines our aerospace expertise with Adani’s strong industrial capabilities and commitment to indigenisation,” said Arjan Meijer, President and CEO, Embraer Commercial Aviation. “Together, we will evaluate the most viable, advanced, and efficient solutions in support of India’s RTA ambitions and their potential for implementation.” This potential partnership will leverage Embraer’s deep engineering and aircraft manufacturing expertise alongside Adani’s aviation value-chain footprint, which includes airport infrastructure, aerospace manufacturing, MRO services, and pilot training. “Regional aviation is the backbone of economic expansion. With initiatives like UDAN transforming air connectivity across Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, the need for an indigenous regional aviation ecosystem has become critical,” said Jeet Adani, Director, Adani Defence & Aerospace. “This partnership will also strengthen strategic relations between India and Brazil, bringing complementary capabilities together.” The proposed ecosystem is geared towards supporting domestic demand while generating significant direct and indirect employment across engineering, manufacturing, logistics, and support services. “We are shaping India’s regional transport aircraft ecosystem, a bold stride toward Aatmanirbhar aviation that bridges urban-rural divides, generates high-skill employment, and elevates India’s position in the global aerospace industry,” said Ashish Rajvanshi, President & CEO, Adani Defence & Aerospace. Embraer has a growing footprint and long history in India, with nearly 50 Embraer aircraft and 11 aircraft types currently operating across commercial, defense, and business aviation. Embraer aircraft operated by the Indian Air Force include the Legacy 600 aircraft and the ‘Netra’ AEW&C aircraft based on the Embraer ERJ145 platform, while Star Air operates a fleet of 13 E175 and ERJ145 aircraft.

New Delhi,23rd January 2026: The Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted its Press Preview for the Republic Day Parade (RDP) 2026 today, providing a detailed overview of the marching contingent, Veterans’ tableau and the flypast that will feature prominently during the national celebrations at Kartavya Path. Briefing the media, the IAF stated that Republic Day Parade serves as a powerful symbol of national unity, reflecting India’s military strength and technological progress. In alignment with the IAF’s motto, “Touch the Sky with Glory,” all participating elements will be reflecting the IAF’s commitment to safeguard the Nation’s skies while contributing to nation-building. This year the IAF, is the lead service for conduct of all ceremonial events related to the Republic Day celebrations. The resplendent ceremonial Guard of Honour marking the commencement of the Republic Day Parade, where the Hon’ble Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi will pay homage to the fallen Heroes will be commanded by Squadron Leader Hemant Singh Katyal. The briefing commenced with the introduction to the IAF marching contingent, which will be representing a distinguished blend of tradition and modernity. Composed of 144 young Air Warriors selected from across the service in recognition of their exemplary military bearing, the contingent has undergone weeks of rigorous training to honour a legacy of pride and glory, while steadfastly upholding the core values of the Indian Air Force. The IAF marching contingent is led by Squadron Leader Jagdesh Kumar, with Squadron Leader Nikita Choudhary, Flight Lieutenant Prakhar Chandrakar and Flight Lieutenant Dinesh as Supernumerary Officers. The IAF Band, led by Sergeant Charles Antony Daniel, will be supporting the marching contingent. The band comprises of 72 elite musicians, including 57 Agniveervayu and 9 Agniveervayu women (who are being introduced for the first time), along with 3 Drum Majors. As the band passes the Presidential dais, it will perform the tune “Sound Barrier,” showcasing its versatility and the modern composition of the Force. The major highlight of the briefing was the unveiling of the theme for the Veteran’s Tableau, “Sangram se Rashtra Nirman Tak” (From Battle to Nation Building), fielded by the IAF for this year’s Republic Day Celebrations. The front portion of the tableau feature the Amar Jawan Jyoti, 3D models of historical war machines, which include the T-55 and Vijayant Tank, Hunter, MiG-21, Mirage and Jaguar aircraft, INS Mysore and INS Rajput, and representations from the 1965, 1971 wars and 1999 Kargil Operation Vijay. The rear portion highlights the role of veterans in national development, focusing on their voluntary efforts in flood relief, medical services, education and the ‘Make in India’ initiative. The briefing concluded with a presentation on this year’s flypast, which will feature 29 aircraft, comprising 16 fighters, 4 transport, and 9 helicopters operating from six different bases. Organized into eight distinct formations, the flypast will commence with the Dhwaj formation, where four Mi-17 IV helicopters will carry the National Flag alongside the flags of the three services. The display will showcase the capabilities of the Rafale, Su-30 MKI, MiG-29 and Jaguar aircraft, complemented by strategic assets which will include the C-130 and C-295, as well as the Indian Navy’s P-8i aircraft. Attack helicopters, such as the IAF’s ALH MK IV and the Indian Army’s ALH WSI, Apache and Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) will also participate in the flypast showcasing jointmanship. A primary highlight of the event is the “Operation Sindoor” formation, demonstrating air power and precision that embodies the IAF theme,” Achook, Abhedya va Sateek. Courtesy: PIB/IAF

Aatmanirbharta in defence is a national imperative & necessity for long-term strategic autonomy, says Defence Secretary at Defence Skilling Conclave Chandigarh, 10th Jan 2026: At the Defence Skilling Conclave in Chandigarh,Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh said, “India is at a decisive moment in its defence and industrial journey, where self-reliance has emerged as a national imperative.” He addressed the delegates while inaugurating the Defence Skilling Conclave on Defence, Aerospace and Strategic Sector Skill Development in Chandigarh on January 10, 2026. Highlighting the transformation of India’s defence industrial ecosystem over the past decade, he stated that guided by the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, the sector has moved from import dependence to a vibrant ecosystem comprising Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs), private industry, MSMEs and start-ups. The Defence Secretary stressed that concerted efforts towards Ease of Doing Business and continued policy reforms have catalysed an indigenous manufacturing surge, encouraging domestic design and production of platforms ranging from UAVs and sensors to complex systems like Artillery Guns, Armoured Vehicles, and Missiles. He noted that over 788 industrial licenses have been issued to 462 companies, significantly boosting private sector participation, while defence exports have crossed Rs 23,162 crore in 2025, reflecting a nearly 35-fold increase since 2014. Rajesh Kumar Singh described indigenous platforms such as the Light Combat Aircraft Tejas, Astra Beyond Visual Range Missile, Dhanush artillery guns and INS Vikrant as shining examples of the growing synergy among the industry, research, and skilled manpower. He reiterated that Aatmanirbharta in defence is not merely an economic objective, but a necessity aimed at achieving long-term strategic autonomy, adding that evolving global supply chains and rapidly advancing technologies present both challenges and unprecedented opportunities for India’s defence sector. Emphasising the importance of human capital, the Defence Secretary stated that true strategic autonomy requires not only indigenisation of hardware but also sovereignty over skills, technology, and intellectual capital. He highlighted the Government of India’s efforts under the Skill India Mission, with agencies such as the National Skill Development Corporation and Directorate General of Training mapping existing capabilities and future skill requirements for the defence and aerospace sectors. Referring to the Prime Minister’s Skilling and Employment through Technology Upgradation (PM-SETU) programme, Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh said the initiative has been launched to bridge gaps among academia, industry and defence R&D. With a total outlay of Rs 60,000 crore over five years, including 50 per cent Government of India funding, PM-SETU aims to establish Centres of Excellence, promote dual apprenticeships, introduce AI-enabled training tools, and integrate Agniveers and veterans into structured skilling pathways. He called upon state governments and industry partners to anchor the PM-SETU programme through an outcome-driven approach, with apprenticeships and on-the-job training, forming the backbone of all skilling pathways, ensuring the creation of industry-ready talent. The Defence Secretary highlighted the untapped potential of Punjab in defence manufacturing. He outlined the need for defence ecosystem networks, enhanced MSME linkages with defence R&D institutions, and dedicated skill and testing infrastructure to enable the state’s emergence as a defence manufacturing hub. Highlighting the crucial role being played by Agniveers, Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh asserted that the Agnipath scheme has created a pool of disciplined and technically trained youth who can be seamlessly integrated into defence manufacturing and strategic sectors through the National Skill Qualification Framework-aligned skill certification. The conclave has been organised by the Government of Punjab in collaboration with the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM) and the Confederation of Indian Industry. The Defence Secretary stated the conclave reaffirmed the collective commitment of government, industry, and academia to build a secure, self-reliant, and technologically advanced India. He expressed confidence that with coordinated efforts, Punjab and the northern region can emerge as key drivers of defence-led growth. Industry leaders, senior officials, academia representatives and the Armed Forces attended the event. (Courtesy: PIB. Published with required editing