Bengaluru: Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh on Sunday inaugurated a state-of-the-art Missile Integration Facility at Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) in Bengaluru, flagged off the Akash 3rd and 4th Regiment Combat Systems, and unveiled the Mountain Fire Control Radar, reinforcing India’s push towards defence indigenisation.
Boost to Indigenous Air Defence Systems
The newly inaugurated Missile Integration Facility is expected to strengthen India’s air defence production capabilities. The flagging off of the Akash 3rd and 4th Regiment Combat Systems marks a significant milestone in enhancing operational readiness.
The unveiling of the Mountain Fire Control Radar further augments India’s surveillance and targeting capabilities, particularly in challenging terrains.
Focus on AI and Advanced Technologies
Rajnath Singh underscored the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence and quantum computing in modern warfare. He noted that real-time decision-making, autonomous systems and cyber defence applications are rapidly reshaping battlefield dynamics.
The launch of BEL’s AI Policy and the Centre of Excellence for AI aim to institutionalise innovation and accelerate the integration of intelligent technologies into defence platforms.
Briefing on Major Defence Programmes
The Raksha Mantri was briefed on ongoing research and development aligned with key national programmes such as Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (QRSAM), Light Combat Aircraft Mk II, Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), Project Kusha (MR SAM/LR SAM), Counter Drone Systems and Naval Weapon Control Systems.
Officials highlighted that indigenous R&D is enhancing preparedness across land, air and naval domains while reducing reliance on foreign technologies.
Indigenous Systems Proved Their Mettle
Referring to Operation Sindoor, the Defence Minister stated that indigenously developed air defence and anti-drone systems effectively neutralised threats. He said advancements in AI-based threat prediction and early warning mechanisms have instilled greater operational confidence among soldiers.
“A self-reliant victory gives the nation renewed confidence,” he remarked, stressing that modern conflicts demand indigenous technological superiority.
Network-Centric Operations and Combat Effectiveness
Rajnath Singh praised BEL for strengthening network-centric operations through integrated systems, real-time data sharing and advanced decision-support capabilities. He said these advancements have significantly enhanced combat effectiveness.
Indigenisation initiatives by BEL’s Central Research Laboratories and various Centres of Excellence in electronics warfare, communication, radar and weapon systems were showcased during the visit.
Call for Collaboration and Innovation
The Defence Minister urged defence public sector undertakings, start-ups and academia to collaborate for agile product development. He emphasised rapid prototyping, cross-disciplinary research and adoption of emerging technologies to stay ahead in the global technology race.
Interacting with young scientists and start-up representatives, he encouraged them to develop cutting-edge indigenous solutions that align with the vision of a “Viksit Bharat.”
Senior officials, including Secretary (Defence Production) Shri Sanjeev Kumar, Additional Secretary & DG (Acquisition) Shri A. Anbarasu, and BEL Chairman & Managing Director Shri Manoj Jain, were present during the visit.
The inauguration of the missile facility and unveiling of AI-driven initiatives underline India’s resolve to build a robust, self-reliant defence ecosystem capable of meeting evolving security challenges.
