Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday said that weapon systems developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) played a decisive role during Operation Sindoor, underscoring the organisation’s professionalism and commitment to safeguarding India’s national interests.
Addressing scientists and officials during his visit to the DRDO headquarters in New Delhi on the occasion of the organisation’s 68th Foundation Day, the Defence Minister said DRDO-developed equipment functioned seamlessly during the operation, boosting the morale of the Armed Forces. He commended the organisation for strengthening India’s indigenous defence capabilities by equipping the military with state-of-the-art technologies.
Singh expressed confidence that DRDO would soon achieve the creation of the ‘Sudarshan Chakra’, an ambitious air defence initiative announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his Independence Day address in 2025. Under the initiative, DRDO is tasked with developing a comprehensive air defence system to provide complete aerial protection to vital installations over the next decade. Emphasising the importance of air defence in modern warfare, the Defence Minister said the experience of Operation Sindoor highlighted the urgency of such capabilities.
Praising DRDO as both a technology creator and a trust builder, Singh said the organisation has emerged as a symbol of hope and confidence for the nation. He highlighted its growing collaboration with the private sector, academia, start-ups and MSMEs, noting that such partnerships have helped create a synergistic defence ecosystem. He added that improvements in systems, processes and project management have made DRDO’s functioning faster, more efficient and reliable.
Calling upon the organisation to stay aligned with the rapidly evolving technological landscape, the Defence Minister urged DRDO to continue focusing on innovation and expand private sector participation. He also appreciated its efforts in deep-tech and next-generation technologies, saying these initiatives would not only enhance national defence capabilities but also strengthen the broader defence ecosystem.
Singh stressed that the present era demands continuous learning and development, as rapid advances in technology and new domains of warfare are making existing knowledge quickly outdated. He underlined the importance of technology scanning, capability assessment and future readiness, urging scientists to constantly challenge themselves and prepare the next generation for emerging challenges.
During the visit, Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and DRDO Chairman Dr Samir V Kamat briefed the Defence Minister on the organisation’s key achievements in 2025, ongoing research and development activities, industry and start-up engagement, and the roadmap for 2026. He also outlined major targets and reform measures aimed at improving the organisation’s performance.
Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, along with senior DRDO scientists and officials, was present on the occasion.
