The Indian Ministry of Defence has recently signed contract worth Rs 2,960 crore with Bharat Dynamics Limited. This agreement is for the supply of Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missiles (MRSAM) to the Indian Navy. The contract aligns with the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative, which aims to enhance self-reliance in defence production.
Significance of the MRSAM Contract
The MRSAM system will be integrated into various naval vessels, enhancing operational capabilities. This contract signifies a commitment to indigenous military technology. It reflects the government’s focus on reducing reliance on foreign imports for defence needs.
Employment Generation and Local Industry Support
The deal is expected to create around 3.5 lakh man-days of employment. It will benefit various Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) involved in the missile production chain. This initiative supports the ‘Buy (Indian)’ procurement policy, ensuring substantial indigenous content in the missiles.
Advancements Under ‘Make in India’
India’s Navy has made remarkable progress under the ‘Make in India‘ initiative. The Navy has constructed 39 out of 40 naval vessels domestically, including advanced platforms like the aircraft carrier INS Vikrant. This shift puts stress on a broader trend towards indigenisation in defence manufacturing.
Recent Naval Developments
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently dedicated three frontline naval platforms – the destroyer INS Surat, the frigate INS Nilgiri, and the submarine INS Vaghsheer. These developments highlight the Navy’s commitment to building capabilities within India and increasing operational confidence among personnel.
Growth of Defence Production
India’s defence production has surpassed Rs 1.25 lakh crore. The country now exports defence equipment to over 100 nations. This growth is supported by major manufacturing hubs established across the country, including helicopter and transport aircraft facilities.
Role of Defence Corridors
Defence corridors in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu have been crucial in boosting domestic manufacturing capabilities. These corridors facilitate the production of defence equipment and contribute to achieving self-sufficiency in defence technology.
Future Prospects
The MRSAM contract is a part of India’s ongoing efforts to enhance its defence capabilities. The government aims to achieve greater self-reliance and boost the local defence industry through continued support for indigenous manufacturing initiatives.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the impact of the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative on India’s defence sector.
- What are the key features of the Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile system? How does it enhance naval capabilities?
- Estimate the significance of indigenous manufacturing in strengthening national security and defence capabilities in India.
- Point out the major achievements of the Indian Navy under the ‘Make in India’ programme and discuss their implications for future defence strategies.
Answer Hints:
1. Critically analyse the impact of the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative on India’s defence sector.
- Promotes self-reliance by reducing dependence on foreign imports for military needs.
- Encourages indigenous manufacturing, leading to the development of local industries and MSMEs.
- Creates employment opportunities, estimated at 3.5 lakh man-days from recent contracts.
- Strengthens national security by enhancing domestic production capabilities.
- Facilitates technological advancements and innovation in defence manufacturing.
2. What are the key features of the Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile system? How does it enhance naval capabilities?
- Designed to target aerial threats at medium ranges, improving defensive operations.
- Standard feature on multiple naval vessels, ensuring compatibility and integration.
- Enhances operational strength by providing advanced air defense for naval assets.
- Incorporates substantial indigenous content, promoting local technology development.
- Supports India’s strategic objectives by boosting maritime security and deterrence.
3. Estimate the significance of indigenous manufacturing in strengthening national security and defence capabilities in India.
- Reduces vulnerability to supply chain disruptions from foreign sources.
- Enhances self-sufficiency in producing critical defence equipment and technology.
- Boosts local economies and creates jobs, contributing to national stability.
- Fosters innovation and skill development in the domestic defence sector.
- Strengthens strategic autonomy, allowing India to make independent defence decisions.
4. Point out the major achievements of the Indian Navy under the ‘Make in India’ programme and discuss their implications for future defence strategies.
- Constructed 39 out of 40 naval vessels domestically, showcasing indigenisation success.
- Developed advanced platforms like the aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and nuclear submarines.
- Increased defence exports to over 100 countries, enhancing India’s global standing.
- Established major manufacturing hubs, improving production efficiency and capabilities.
- Sets a precedent for future defence strategies focused on self-reliance and indigenous development.
