New Delhi : In a landmark announcement that signals a major leap in India’s defence preparedness, Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh revealed that India has officially begun work on ‘Sudarshan Chakra’, its indigenous version of the Iron Dome air defence system.
Speaking at a press briefing in New Delhi, the IAF Chief emphasised the urgent need for self-reliance in defence technology. He stated, “We have already put our heads together in this along with DRDO, and we have started developing a system which will, of course, have our own integrated air command and control system (IACCS) at its heart.”
The Sudarshan Chakra project aims to build a multi-layered air defence shield capable of intercepting and neutralising aerial threats such as missiles, drones, and enemy aircraft.
Inspired by Israel’s Iron Dome, which has proven highly effective in combat scenarios, India will tailor its version to meet the country’s unique strategic and geographical needs.
Air Chief Marshal Singh highlighted the growing relevance of air power in modern warfare, citing the recent Operation Sindoor as a turning point. “The relevance of air power has come to the forefront after Operation Sindoor,” he said, referring to the operation that showcased India’s rapid deployment and precision strike capabilities.
Though authorities have kept details of Operation Sindoor classified, defence analysts believe that the forces conducted coordinated air and ground manoeuvres in a high-stakes border scenario.
Underscoring the importance of Atma nirbhar Bharat, or self-reliance, in defence, the IAF Chief stressed that India can no longer rely on foreign technologies.
“There is an urgent need for Atma nirbhar Bharat ; we cannot remain dependent,” he said, adding that indigenous innovation will ensure strategic autonomy.
He also spoke about the evolving nature of warfare, warning that future conflicts will differ from past wars. “The character of war is constantly evolving. The next conflict will not resemble the last — we must be future-ready,” he emphasised.
This statement reflects the Indian Air Force’s broader push toward modernisation, including its investments in artificial intelligence, unmanned systems, and cyber warfare capabilities.
–IANS
