India Aims High with Multi-Layered Missile Force and Diversified Fighter Aircraft Production

Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh outlines India's ambitious plans to build a versatile missile force and diversify its fighter aircraft production. Speaking at the ANI National Security Summit, Singh emphasized the necessity for strategic diversification to ensure resilience and minimize overdependence on single production lines.

India is setting its sights on a groundbreaking expansion of its defence capabilities, as revealed by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh. The nation is advancing towards establishing a diverse, multi-layered conventional missile force and aims to boost its fighter aircraft production through diversified manufacturing lines under the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programme.

Speaking at the ANI National Security Summit in the capital, Singh highlighted the strategic need for multiple production lines. He cited global examples of defence producers that maintain parallel production systems to mitigate risks and enhance long-term resilience. Singh clarified concerns about Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) not being involved in the AMCA prototype stage, noting that participation opportunities remain open in future stages.

Additionally, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) Chairman Samir V Kamat discussed the evolving structure of India's missile doctrine, emphasizing the need for a multi-dimensional force encompassing ballistic and hypersonic missile capabilities. Meanwhile, Chief of Integrated Defence Staff Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit stressed heightened coordination among adversaries, urging India to stay vigilant and prepared for any shifts in international alignments.