Tri-Services Firing and Manoeuvre Exercise Bharat Shakti gets a VVIP audience-PM Narendra Modi

Speaking about the long-range AGNI missile test firing that featured cutting-edge MIRV technology, the prime minister praised the existence of testing facilities in India and confirmed that only a few nations worldwide possess such cutting-edge technology. From edible oils to fighter jets, India is emphasising on self reliance, the Prime Minister said, noting that this event is a step towards this resolution. The Prime Minister claimed that India’s fighter jets, tanks, cannons, helicopters, and missile systems, which demonstrate the country’s might, are proof of the success of  Aatmanirbhar Bharat  in the defence sector.  Indeed, this is Bharat Shakti, declared a jubilant Prime Minister. He also lauded the success of manufacturing of  advanced light combat helicopters, submarines, destroyers, aircraft carriers, advanced Arjun Tanks, and cannons, as well as fighter jets Tejas.

The Prime Minister outlined policy changes, enlisting the private sector, and supporting MSME startups in the defence industry as ways to achieve India’s goal of being self-sufficient in this area. He discussed the defence corridors that are being invested in by Rs 7000 crore in Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh. Moreover, the biggest helicopter factory in Asia has opened for business in India. He complimented the three Chiefs for compiling lists of goods that will not be imported and for preserving the Indian ecosystems that produce these goods. The Prime Minister expressed gratitude that equipment valued at Rs. 6 lakh crore has been purchased from Indian companies over the past ten years. The nation’s defence output has doubled to over Rs 1 lakh crore during this time. Over 150 defense-related startups have launched in the past ten years, and the armed forces have issued them orders totaling Rs. 1800 crore.

According to PM Modi, “Aatmanirbharta is the guarantee of self-confidence in the armed forces for India’s defence needs.” He emphasised that when the tools and weaponry used in battle are produced domestically, the military’s power multiplies. The Prime Minister stated that India has produced its own fighter jets, aircraft carriers, C295 transport planes, and cutting-edge flight engines in the past ten years. In light of the recent Cabinet decision to design, develop, and produce fifth generation fighter jets in India, the Prime Minister expressed optimism for the future expansion of the defence industry and the plethora of job and self-employment opportunities that would result. The Prime Minister emphasised India’s emergence as a defence exporter and mentioned an eight-fold increase in the nation’s defence exports compared to 2014, recalling the time when the country was the world’s largest importer of defence.

In order to demonstrate the integrated operational capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces to counter threats across the land, air, sea, cyber, and space domains, Bharat Shakti simulated realistic, synergized, multi-domain operations. Indian Army showcased its advanced ground warfare and aerial surveillance capabilities through the use of various systems, such as T-90 (IM) Tanks, Dhanush and Sarang Gun Systems, Akash Weapons System, Logistics Drones, Robotic Mules, Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), and an assortment of unmanned aerial vehicles.

The Indian Navy demonstrated its technological prowess and maritime might with the display of Naval Anti-Ship Missiles, Autonomous Cargo Carrying Aerial Vehicles, and Expendable Aerial Targets. The Indian Air Force showcased its air superiority and versatility in air operations by deploying Light Combat Aircraft Tejas, Light Utility Helicopters, and Advanced Light Helicopters, all of which were developed in-country.

The resilience, inventiveness, and strength of India’s domestic defence capabilities on the international arena were highlighted in Bharat Shakti, which was a glaring indication of the country’s preparedness to face and overcome current and future challenges with indigenous solutions.