Operation Sindoor was a reality check, says Defence Secretary; India-U.S. defence cooperation remains steady

Operation Sindoor has served as a reality check, highlighting areas where India needs to strengthen and adapt for future conflicts, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh said on Friday.

Speaking at the inaugural STRIDE 2025 seminar on the theme “Synergy of Technology, Research & Defence Ecosystem” organised by Southern Command, Mr. Singh underlined the importance of preparedness, technology adoption, and self-reliance in defence.

“Many countries are focusing on defence and hard power, and India is no exception given its neighbourhood. The recent operation highlighted areas for improvement and adaptation for future conflicts. The goal is to collaborate with ministries, academia, and research institutions to advance self-reliance,” he said.

The Defence Secretary added that while some immediate requirements of the armed forces were being met through emergency procurement, with powers to buy off-the-shelf equipment domestically or, if required, from abroad, the long-term aim was to develop indigenous solutions through the DRDO and ultimately achieve full self-reliance.

He stressed that rapid technological disruptions are reshaping not only the nature of warfare but also the defence industry, urging all stakeholders to stay abreast of emerging trends.

On India-U.S. defence cooperation, Mr. Singh clarified that there has been no spillover effect of trade tensions on military ties. “Our defence collaboration and talks have continued even during that period. Those trade tensions are also easing now, and we have resumed negotiations. Hopefully, it will be successful,” he said.

He noted that engines from General Electric for the Light Combat Aircraft are being delivered, and India has also received two Apache helicopters for the Army during this period. “So, the defence collaboration will not have much impact,” Mr. Singh said, citing ongoing 2+2 ministerial and delegation-level talks between the two nations.

Appreciating the role of private industry in bolstering the defence sector and making it self-reliant, he urged greater investments in R&D and manufacturing capacity. He pointed out that the defence sector would not be able to witness the scale of innovation and capability the armed forces require unless the private sector was willing to stay the course and make long-term investments.