Atmanirbharta in defence: It's not as simple as it seems, Pg14

Key Highlights:

• India's government has promoted defence self-reliance through initiatives like Make in India, Vocal for Local, and Atmanirbhar Bharat.
• The vision is to "design in India, develop in India, manufacture in India" to reduce dependence on foreign weaponry.
• Indigenous defence and aerospace production quadrupled from Rs 46,000 crore in 2014 to Rs 1.78 trillion in FY 2025-26.
• Defence exports significantly increased from Rs 600 crore in 2014 to Rs 38,434 crore last year, with a target of Rs 50,000 crore by 2028-29.
• Despite progress, a significant portion (up to 40%) of "Indian" defence platforms still relies on imported components and subsystems.

Detailed Insights:

• India was the world's fifth-largest defence spender and second-largest arms importer last year, highlighting the need for indigenization.
• The pursuit of self-reliance aims to achieve "strategic autonomy" and reduce pressure from foreign governments and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).
• Designing, developing, testing, and manufacturing defence platforms domestically is the most expensive acquisition method compared to leasing or direct purchase.
• Even advanced defence economies do not aim for 100% self-sufficiency, instead focusing on retaining control of key technologies while sourcing others globally.
• The development of the digital flight control computer and fly-by-wire software for the Tejas fighter is cited as a successful example of indigenous capability in critical technology.
• Effective project management, including identifying essential technologies and sourcing strategies, is crucial for financially viable self-reliance.
• Participating in the international defence supply chain can create mutual vulnerability, potentially deterring embargoes and cut-offs from foreign suppliers.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Atmanirbhar Bharat: A policy vision for a self-reliant India across various sectors, including defence.
• Make in India: A government initiative to encourage companies to manufacture their products in India.
• Strategic Autonomy: The ability of a nation to pursue its foreign policy and security interests independently, free from external pressures.
• Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM): A company that produces parts and equipment that may be marketed by another manufacturer.