Sections

Introduction [00:00 – 01:39]

Key Emergent Military Technologies [01:39 – 11:05]

Past Efforts at Self Reliance in Defence Technologies [11:05 – 19:07]

Contours of a Fresh Approach [19:07 – 32:44]

Proposed Restructuring [32:44 – 45:28]

Transformation within the Armed Forces [45:28 – 1:08:29]

In this episode of Def Talks on YouTube, Aadi Achint discusses with Lt Gen (Dr) R S Panwar the all important issue of Atmanirbharta in defence technologies. The central concept proposed here is that the focus needs to shift from current efforts to improve the defence procurement process to optimising the defence R&D process, with the Armed Forces acting as the pivot as opposed to the DRDO. With the changing character of warfare as a backdrop, the conversation first prioritises the critical military technologies which need maximum attention on the modern battlespace. Thereafter, an overview is given of past initiatives taken by India to boost self-reliance in defence, with lacklustre results. Major highlights of R&D practices followed by world leaders in defence technologies are then given out, with a view to drawing useful lessons. Thereafter, several suggestions are made for carrying out a transformative restructuring of the defence R&D ecosystem, with the Armed Forces at the helm of affairs. Finally, it is contended that if the proposed restructuring is to yield the desired results, the Armed Forces need to undergo an internal transformation aimed at ushering in a culture of specialisation.