Air Chief Highlights Need for Faster Defence Tech

Air Chief Marshal AP Singh has called for accelerating India's indigenous defence technology development, emphasizing that innovation must keep pace with rapidly evolving global technologies to remain effective and strategically relevant.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony of INS Malvan at Naval Base Karwar, the Chief of Air Staff said that strengthening homegrown research, development, and production is essential for India's long-term defence preparedness.

He remarked that "technology delayed is technology denied," stressing that lengthy development cycles risk making new systems obsolete before they enter service. According to him, India must innovate at the "speed of relevance" to remain competitive in modern warfare.

Air Chief Marshal AP Singh acknowledged that while India has not yet reached its ultimate goals in indigenous defence production, the country is moving in the right direction. He expressed confidence that sustained focus on self-reliance and innovation would prove to be a game changer for India's defence sector.

The Air Chief also congratulated Cochin Shipyard Limited Chairman and Managing Director Jose V.J. and the shipbuilding team for successfully delivering INS Malvan to the nation. He further praised the Indian Navy's project, trials, and acceptance teams for their dedication in ensuring the successful induction of multiple naval platforms.

Highlighting the strategic importance of Naval Base Karwar, he said the facility has become a symbol of India's maritime vision under Project Seabird and ranks among the world's most modern naval bases. He concluded by stating that India is "second to none" in several strategic capabilities and that the nation should take pride in its growing defence infrastructure and self-reliance.