New Delhi: The Indian Army is focusing on promoting lethal weapons made in the country. Army Chief General Manoj Pandey has expressed confidence that the Indian industry is capable of meeting the immediate needs of the armed forces. He said that the local defence contract could reach Rs 8 lakh crore in the next 8 years as the indigenization drive continues. Manoj Pandey said that the army needs new technology in various fields of warfare. These include Artificial Intelligence based satellite imagery interpretation, drone and counter systems, war materials, quantum computing and mobility of troops. It creates a market for the private sector.
The Army Chief has said that 'In the last 3-4 years, there has been a three-fold increase in indigenous contracts. In the coming 7-8 years, the value of the Swadeshi market can reach Rs 7-8 lakh crore. This will be a market that has a lot of potential for the defence industry. There is also much to be learned from the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, he said. During this, we have seen a dire need for indigenous production, so that we do not have to depend on imports for defence. He said that keeping in mind the requirements of the armed forces, steps have been taken to promote the private sector.
General Manoj Pandey has said that 'We are supporting startups and small companies. The process of trial and testing has been simplified. Steps have also been taken so that the private industry can understand our needs. The fourth phase of emergency procurement is going on by the army. In this, more focus is being done on indigenous products.'
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