Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlights indigenous design, development and manufacturing as key drivers of India’s growing aerospace ecosystem
Bengaluru : The handover of the Tejas FOC Twin-Seater Trainers, HTT-40 Basic Trainer Aircraft and Dhruv NG helicopters marks another significant step in expanding India’s indigenous aerospace manufacturing capabilities and strengthening the country’s pursuit of self-reliance in defence. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh was the chief guest of handing-over ceremony of LCA Tejas FOC Twin-Seater Trainer aircraft and HTT-40 Basic Trainer Aircraft to the Indian Air Force (IAF), along with Dhruv NG helicopters to PHL, in Bengaluru.
Addressing the occasion, Rajnath Singh said the event marked a landmark achievement in India’s journey towards building world-class aircraft through indigenous capabilities. He emphasised that India possesses the talent, technology and industrial capabilities required to develop and manufacture advanced aerospace platforms.
The Defence Minister noted that the two distinct platforms cater to defence as well as civil requirements, reflecting the expanding capabilities of India’s aerospace ecosystem. He said these achievements demonstrate the country’s growing resolve to pursue indigenous design, development and manufacturing.
Rajnath Singh said India is moving systematically towards Aatmanirbharta in defence, with the manufacturing of state-of-the-art equipment within the country gaining momentum under the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Government’s focus on self-reliance.
He also highlighted the government’s efforts to strengthen the role of Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) while simultaneously creating greater opportunities for the private sector. According to him, ensuring a level playing field between public and private industry is an important part of building a stronger and more competitive defence manufacturing ecosystem.