Of Matters Military: Defence Production and Mission Make in India

Contents: 1. Dismal State of the Indian Defence Industry. 2. Expediting Development of Defence Production. 3. Mission ‘Make in India’. 4. Private Sector Continues to Seek Relevance. 5. FDI and Foreign Collaborations. 6. Offsets.

Imported defence systems are like crutches that can provide only temporary sustenance but not enduring muscle-strength. Dependence on imports makes a nation hostage to the policies of the exporting nations and captive to the dictates of unscrupulous foreign vendors. Therefore, ‘Make in India’ is a highly overdue clarion call and a mission statement.

The book identifies reasons for the dismal state of the Indian defence industry and suggests corrective measures. It recommends integration of the private sector and support to MSMEs. Need for an ecosystem to foster innovations has also been emphasised. 

As the defence industry is characterised by rapid obsolescence, regular infusion of the latest defence technologies is essential. FDI is not just a question of getting funds, but access the latest know-how as well. Similarly, the powerful leverage of offsets can be used to obtain technologies that industrially-advanced nations are unwilling to sell.

Finally, the book suggests establishment of a Defence and Aerospace Commission to oversee all functions pertaining to armament production, acquisitions and exports.