Introduction The Consultative Committee for the Ministry of Defence, chaired by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh, conducted a significant visit to the Armament Research & Development Establishment (ARDE) in Pune on October 16, 2025. As a premier laboratory under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)’s Armament & Combat Engineering Systems (ACE) cluster, ARDE showcased its cutting-edge innovations. The committee inspected state-of-the-art products and received insights into ongoing and future technological advancements.
Key Highlights from the Inspection During the tour, the committee examined advanced defence systems developed by various labs within the ACE cluster. Notable demonstrations included:
- Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System
- PINAKA Rocket System
- Light Tank ‘Zorawar’
- Wheeled Armoured Platform
- AKASH-New Generation Missile
The members were also briefed on emerging technologies such as Robotics, Rail Gun, Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System, and High-Energy Propulsion Materials. A comprehensive roadmap for the cluster’s future initiatives was presented, highlighting DRDO’s role in bolstering India’s defence capabilities.
Raksha Mantri’s Address on Emerging Technologies In his address on the theme ‘Emerging Technologies and DRDO’, Shri Rajnath Singh emphasized the transformative shifts in the defence sector and the evolving dynamics of modern warfare. He described advanced technologies as indispensable in today’s fast-paced world and reaffirmed the government’s dedication to embedding them into India’s security framework.
“Today is an era of technological dominance. The nation that prioritizes science and innovation will lead the future. Technology is no longer confined to laboratories; it forms the bedrock of our strategic decisions, defence systems, and future policies. Our aim is not merely to achieve Aatmanirbharta in defence but to foster a culture that inspires future generations and positions India as a global hub for defence innovation,” stated Shri Rajnath Singh.
Embracing Change as a National Mission Shri Rajnath Singh stressed the importance of viewing technological adoption as a national mission beyond mere upgrades. “We must not only be users of technology but also its creators. To realize this, we need to intensify our self-reliance efforts. Aatmanirbharta in defence is not just a goal—it is the strongest shield for national security,” he asserted.
He reiterated the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi-led government’s firm commitment to self-reliance, noting that India cannot rely on imported technologies to protect its interests. “The availability of cutting-edge tech is often restricted, with some nations practicing protectionism or withholding information. India has overcome these barriers, proving that clear intentions and robust policies can lead to self-sufficiency in any domain. Today, India not only fulfills its domestic needs but is emerging as a reliable defence partner globally,” he added.
Appreciation for DRDO’s Contributions Raksha Mantri commended DRDO for indigenizing technologies that were once imported and pioneering futuristic solutions discussed worldwide. He highlighted the collaborative ecosystem involving DRDO, industry, academia, and startups, transforming defence R&D into a nationwide endeavor.
“DRDO, public sector enterprises, private industries, startups, and academia are collectively setting new benchmarks in defence innovation. Our youth are achieving breakthroughs in fields like Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Security, Robotics, Quantum Communication, and Space Technology. India is rising as a technology leader thanks to the dedication and ingenuity of its people. These emerging technologies not only modernize our armed forces but also create new opportunities for the youth,” said Shri Rajnath Singh.
Committee Feedback and Suggestions Other committee members expressed admiration for the ACE cluster’s accomplishments and ongoing projects. They offered constructive suggestions for future policymaking, urging accelerated and systematic progress to safeguard national interests. Shri Rajnath Singh assured that all inputs would be carefully considered.
Attendees The meeting was attended by Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh, Secretary (Defence Production) Shri Sanjeev Kumar, Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat, along with other senior Ministry of Defence officials. Directors, scientists, and DG (ACE) from the cluster were also present.