Rajnath Singh Highlights India’s Aerospace Self-Reliance

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh witnessed the handing-over ceremony of LCA Tejas FOC Twin Seater Trainer and HTT-40 Basic Trainer Aircraft to the Indian Air Force (IAF), along with Dhruv NG helicopters to PHL, in Bengaluru.

Witnessed the Handing Over ceremony of LCA Tejas FOC Twin Seater Trainers & HTT 40 Basic Trainer Aircraft to IAF and Dhruv NG helicopters to PHL in Bengaluru.

India has the talent and technology to deliver world-class aircraft and today is a landmark achievement in this… pic.twitter.com/KxuUw081Tc

— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) September 18, 2026

Singh described the ceremony as a landmark achievement for India’s growing aerospace ecosystem, highlighting the country’s indigenous capabilities in aircraft design, development and manufacturing. He said the platforms demonstrate India’s ability to develop world-class aircraft for both defence and civil requirements.

The Defence Minister said India is moving systematically towards Aatmanirbharta in defence, with indigenous production of advanced equipment gaining momentum under the Narendra Modi-led government’s self-reliance agenda.

Singh also highlighted government efforts to provide greater opportunities to Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) while encouraging private industry and ensuring a level playing field across the defence sector.