Rajnath Singh pushes for edge in high-tech warfare, Pg14

Key Highlights:

• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized the need for India to accelerate innovation in defence technologies.
• The focus is on emerging domains like directed energy weapons, hypersonic systems, artificial intelligence, and quantum technologies.
• Rajnath Singh addressed the inaugural session of North Tech Symposium in Prayagraj.
• He cited Akash missile system and BrahMos as examples of India's self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

Detailed Insights:

• Future warfare will be defined by rapid technological advancements and the element of surprise, necessitating proactive innovation.
• Directed energy weapons, hypersonic systems, AI, and quantum technologies are critical for maintaining a strategic advantage.
• The call for innovation extends to both industry and academia, requiring collaborative efforts to achieve breakthroughs.
• India's growing self-reliance in defence manufacturing is exemplified by advanced platforms like the Akash and BrahMos.

Scientific/Technical Concepts Involved:

• Directed Energy Weapons: Weapons that use focused electromagnetic energy to damage a target.

Hypersonic Systems

: Systems exceeding Mach 5, enabling rapid and long-range strike capabilities.