Defence Minister of India Rajnath Singh has invited international partners to collaborate on the co-development and co-production of advanced defence systems, citing the need for innovative approaches and stronger global partnerships in response to evolving security challenges.
Speaking at the Defence Ministers’ Conclave, ‘Building Resilience through International Defence and Global Engagement (BRIDGE),’ held during the 15th Aero India in Bengaluru, Singh outlined India’s policy focus on developing modern defence technologies through international cooperation. The event was attended by 162 delegates from 81 countries, including 15 Defence Ministers, 11 Deputy Defence Ministers, 15 Permanent Secretaries, and 17 Service Chiefs.
Singh highlighted emerging security threats, including hybrid warfare, cybersecurity risks, and disruptive technologies such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, hypersonic weapons, and directed energy systems. He stated that these developments are reshaping modern warfare and necessitate reassessment of military capabilities.
The Indian government has implemented policies to encourage investment and production across land, maritime, and air defence systems. Singh emphasized India’s defence start-up ecosystem and its research and development base, noting opportunities for international collaboration. He also underscored the country’s capacity to produce defence equipment at competitive costs and its commitment to sharing technology with partners.
During the conclave, discussions focused on defence capacity building through investment, joint ventures, research and development, training, and technological advancements in artificial intelligence and space. Maritime security cooperation and strategic partnerships were also key topics.
Several participating countries expressed interest in co-developing and co-producing advanced defence technologies, as well as in technology transfers. The discussions included concerns over cybersecurity, illicit activities such as illegal drug trafficking and unauthorized fishing, and strategies for countering these threats through international cooperation.
Defence industry leaders and officials, including Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, and Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, attended the event alongside senior officials from the Ministry of Defence and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
The BRIDGE initiative aims to facilitate structured dialogue and tangible defence collaborations among nations. The conclave served as a platform for countries to explore new partnerships in defence manufacturing, technology sharing, and capability enhancement.
On Date: