New Delhi, July 16 (UNI) Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan today underlined the strategic necessity of indigenous defence technologies, stating that self-reliance in critical systems is vital for India’s operational readiness and national security.

Speaking at the Workshop on Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) indigenisation here, he emphasised that Operation Sindoor highlighted the critical need for C-UAS solution developed specifically for India's unique terrain and defence requirements.

“Operation Sindoor has shown us why indigenously developed counter-UAS systems, designed for our terrain and operational needs, are crucial. We cannot rely on imported niche technologies for our offensive and defensive missions,” he said.

He said, “Foreign weapons and sensors have known capabilities. Our adversaries can predict their operational parameters and can devise tactics to counter them. For example, the ranges of imported air-to-air missiles fitted on modern aircraft are known not just to us, but also to our enemies. They can stay out of range and exploit those limitations”.

He said that in contrast, indigenous systems provide strategic advantages.

“So, when we design, make and innovate at home, we safeguard our secrets, cut our costs, retain that initiative to scale our production and maintain round the clock readiness,” the CDS stressed.

He also reiterated Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, view that “Atmanirbharta is not a choice, it is part of our duty”.
The workshop was organised by Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (HQ IDS) in collaboration with the Centre for Joint Warfare Studies (CENJOWS).

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