India Invites Global Community to Co-Develop & Co-Produce Advanced Defence Systems
Rajnath Singh Highlights India’s Commitment to Global Security & Innovation at Defence Ministers’ Conclave
BNH NETWORK
Bengaluru, February 11, 2025 – Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh has called upon the global community to join India in the co-development and co-production of advanced defence systems. Speaking at the Defence Ministers’ Conclave, themed 'Building Resilience through International Defence and Global Engagement (BRIDGE)', held as part of the 15th Aero India in Bengaluru, he emphasised the need for innovative approaches and stronger partnerships in light of the evolving global security scenario.
The event saw participation from over 162 delegates from 81 countries, including 15 Defence Ministers, 11 Deputy Defence Ministers, 15 Permanent Secretaries, and 17 Service Chiefs.
The Need for Stronger Security Partnerships
“Increasing conflicts, shifting power dynamics, and the growing role of non-state actors, combined with disruptive technologies, have made global security more fragile,” said Rajnath Singh. He pointed out that the distinction between border and internal security is blurring, with hybrid warfare targeting critical national infrastructure even in peacetime. Emerging technologies, including AI, quantum computing, hypersonics, and directed energy weapons, are reshaping warfare, demanding reassessment of global defence strategies.
India’s Growing Defence Capabilities
Rajnath Singh highlighted India’s transformation under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating that the country has implemented progressive defence policies encouraging investment in land, maritime, and air defence systems. He noted that India has developed a thriving defence start-up ecosystem, boasting the world’s third-largest number of unicorns and offering significant opportunities for collaboration.
“Our skills and cost-effectiveness enable us to produce cutting-edge defence solutions. India is committed to sharing its state-of-the-art defence equipment, services, and technologies with friendly nations,” he asserted.
Strategic Vision: Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR)
Raksha Mantri reiterated India’s inclusive and cooperative vision of ‘Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR)’, particularly in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). India has actively engaged in combating non-traditional threats such as piracy, terrorism, illegal fishing, and climate-related challenges. He emphasised that India’s commitment extends beyond the IOR, serving as a blueprint for fostering global partnerships based on equality, trust, and mutual respect.
India as a Preferred Defence Partner
India, according to Rajnath Singh, does not believe in transactional relationships but rather in mutual capacity building. He noted that defence collaboration should be built on equitable partnerships, whether in supplying Indian-made defence equipment, joint training programs, or expertise sharing.
“Our defence industry is well-equipped to meet diverse requirements, offering customized solutions tailored to the needs of partner nations,” he said.
Global Response & Commitment
The Defence Ministers praised India’s efforts in organizing Aero India and creating an opportunity for world-class manufacturers to showcase the latest innovations. They expressed enthusiasm for Transfer of Technology, co-development, and co-production with India, recognizing India’s role in strengthening global resilient supply chains.
The conclave also addressed shared security concerns, with participants agreeing to collaborate against terrorism, cybercrime, illegal drug trafficking, and other transnational threats.
The vision of ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future’, advocated by Prime Minister Modi during India’s G20 Presidency, resonated strongly during discussions.
Moving Forward: Strengthening Global Defence Ties
Closing the event, Raksha Rajya Mantri Sanjay Seth expressed gratitude to the attendees, emphasizing the spirit of collaboration embodied by BRIDGE. He reaffirmed India’s commitment to expanding existing partnerships and exploring new areas of mutual prosperity.
Among the dignitaries present were Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, and DRDO Chairman Dr Samir V Kamat.
The conclave provided a platform for discussions on defence capacity building, AI & space advancements, maritime security cooperation, and strategic partnerships, reinforcing India’s emergence as a global leader in defence innovation and security collaborations.
