Private Sector Key to Overcoming Defence Delays: Air Chief Marshal

Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh Urges Private Sector to Address Defence Project Delays

On May 29, 2025, Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh voiced significant concern over persistent delays in India’s defence projects, noting that not a single project has been completed on time. While addressing the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Annual Business Summit, he emphasized the urgent need for accountability and efficiency in the defence procurement process. Moreover, he pointed out that timelines are often unrealistic, and contracts are signed despite doubts about feasibility. Therefore, Singh called on the private sector to step forward, develop world-class products, and contribute to strengthening India’s defence capabilities.

Call for Private Sector Involvement in Defence Manufacturing

The opening up of the defence sector presents a major opportunity for Indian private industry. Singh encouraged firms to collaborate and produce high-quality military equipment, even if immediate profits appear modest. In addition, he stressed that trust is vital for lasting collaboration between the armed forces and the industry. While initial trust may not be essential, retaining it depends on consistent actions and clear communication. Furthermore, Singh highlighted the necessity for India to become self-reliant and future-ready in defence manufacturing, especially given the rapidly evolving global landscape.

Operational Readiness Affected by Delays

Delays in military modernization projects are having a detrimental impact on the operational readiness of the Indian Armed Forces. Consequently, Singh emphasized the importance of adhering to practical schedules and ensuring reliable execution to sustain and enhance combat capabilities. His remarks reflect ongoing concerns about the efficiency and effectiveness of India’s defence procurement and modernization programs. Thus, addressing these delays is crucial for maintaining India’s defence readiness.

Operation Sindoor: A National Victory

Describing Operation Sindoor as a national victory, Singh praised the operation’s professional execution. Indeed, the success demonstrated the critical role of effective air power and underscored the importance of both capability and capacity in defence manufacturing. Moreover, Singh highlighted the need to shift focus from merely producing in India to designing and developing indigenous defence systems. Therefore, continued trust and open communication between the armed forces and industry are essential for ensuring the success of such initiatives.

Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh

DRDO’s Role and Future Vision

Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Chairman of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), echoed Singh’s call for private sector involvement in defence R&D. Specifically, he emphasized the importance of embracing high-risk, emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and hypersonics to prepare the services for future warfare. Additionally, he pointed out that startups and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) possess the flexibility to drive innovation in this space. However, India’s investment in R&D, at just 0.65% of GDP, remains significantly lower than global leaders like the USA and China. Thus, Kamat called for a substantial increase in funding for defence innovation.

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