Union Minister of State for Science and Technology Dr Jitendra Singh has said Artificial Intelligence (AI), quantum technologies, biotechnology and space capabilities will play a defining role in India’s defence strategy and future security. The statement holds significance as warfare becomes increasingly technology-driven.
Addressing senior officers at the National Defence College in New Delhi, Singh said modern conflicts are no longer decided only by military strength. Instead, countries that lead in advanced technologies will hold the strategic advantage. He stressed that India must stay ahead of the technology curve to safeguard its national interests in an increasingly complex security environment.
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Technology Takes Centre Stage in National Security
According to Singh, future military operations will rely more on autonomous systems, intelligent surveillance, predictive analytics, cognitive warfare and faster decision-making tools than traditional battlefield tactics. He noted that recent global conflicts have demonstrated how space assets, secure communications, surveillance networks, precision systems and data-led decision-making have become central to defence planning.
The minister said India’s growing indigenous technology ecosystem has already strengthened the country’s defence preparedness while improving its standing on the global stage.
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Defence Manufacturing and Exports Record Strong Growth
Highlighting India’s push towards self-reliance, Singh said defence production has increased by nearly 174 per cent since 2014, reaching around ₹1.54 lakh crore. Defence exports have also expanded almost 34-fold, crossing ₹23,000 crore, with private companies contributing a significant share of overseas sales.
“Over 16,000 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and hundreds of startups are involved in defence manufacturing & technology development, reflecting the expanding role of private industry in strengthening India’s defence capabilities,” he further added.
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Quantum Mission and Industry Collaboration in Focus
Jitendra Singh further highlighted how India’s National Quantum Mission, launched in 2023, is a key step towards building quantum-secure communications and post-quantum encryption systems to protect critical military infrastructure.
He also called for closer collaboration among government agencies, industry, academia and startups, saying public-private partnerships will be essential to turning scientific research into deployable defence technologies that can support the armed forces in the years ahead.
India’s defence technology roadmap is steadily shifting towards deep-tech capabilities. As government funding, startup participation and indigenous research continue to expand, Artificial Intelligence, quantum computing and secure communications are expected to become key growth areas for both the country’s defence ecosystem and its emerging technology sector.
Samarjit Kaur is a journalist and communications professional covering technology & emerging digital trends. With a focus on clarity and context, she reports on developments shaping industries and governance. When not reporting, she chooses to plug-in and relax on her playlists and plan her next bucket-list trips!
