New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said the weapon systems developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation played a decisive role during Operation Sindoor, reflecting the organisation’s professionalism and commitment to safeguarding national interests.
Speaking at the DRDO headquarters in New Delhi on Thursday to mark the organisation’s 68th Foundation Day, the Raksha Mantri said DRDO-built equipment functioned seamlessly during the operation. As a result, he said, the performance boosted the morale of soldiers and strengthened India’s operational confidence.
He also expressed confidence that DRDO would play a crucial role in creating the Sudarshan Chakra initiative announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his Independence Day 2025 address. Under the plan, DRDO is tasked with equipping vital installations with air defence systems to ensure full aerial protection over the next decade.
Operation Sindoor highlighted the need for strong air defence
Referring to Operation Sindoor, Rajnath Singh said the conflict underlined the importance of air defence in modern warfare. Therefore, he said, DRDO must work with full commitment to achieve the Sudarshan Chakra goal at the earliest.
The Defence Minister praised DRDO for evolving into both a technology creator and a trust builder. He said this dual role had strengthened public confidence in the organisation. Moreover, he noted that closer collaboration with industry, academia, start-ups and MSMEs had created a more synergetic defence ecosystem.
Rajnath Singh said DRDO had consistently improved its systems and work culture. From procurement to project management, and from industry engagement to start-up collaboration, he said the organisation had made visible efforts to make processes faster and more reliable.
Calling for sustained innovation, the Raksha Mantri urged DRDO to stay aligned with the rapidly changing technological landscape. He also stressed the need to identify more areas for private sector participation, especially in deep tech and next-generation technologies.
He said continuous learning was essential in an era where technology and warfare domains were advancing rapidly. During the meeting, DRDO Chairman and Secretary, Department of Defence R&D, Dr Samir V Kamat briefed the minister on achievements in 2025, ongoing research and development, and the roadmap for 2026.
Raksha Rajya Mantri Sanjay Seth, senior DRDO scientists, directors and officials were present at the event.
