How to get real on indigenous defence

Defence is unlike any other industry. It works according to a 'whatever it takes' principle beyond the usual lines of fiscal control. Enter indigenous weapons manufacturing. India's defence sector has grown significantly. Yet, it still imports 35-40% of its defence equipment, especially in critical areas like jet engines, advanced electronics and precision-guided munitions. The gap between ambition and capacity explains why manufacturers can exaggerate 'indigenous' share of their products. A radar system assembled in India may boast of 70% local content. But if its semiconductors or propulsion modules are imported, the claim's a fudge.

The reasons are clear. India's defence R&D ecosystem remains underfunded and fragmented. Defence PSUs dominate, but often lack agility. Private firms struggle with long procurement cycles and limited access to cutting-edge tech. Also, global supply chains are deeply entrenched. Even advanced economies rely on cross-border components. Then, incentives are misaligned. Firms inflate indigenous content to qualify for contracts under 'Make in India' norms, knowing that verification mechanisms are weak.

CoDS Gen Anil Chauhan's warning last weekend of inflated claims of homegrown weaponry isn't just rhetoric. Overpromising delays readiness and erodes trust between armed forces and industry. The solution lies in robust auditing of supply chains, transparent certification of indigenous content, and stricter penalties for misrepresentation. Equally, GoI must invest more in defence R&D, incentivise JVs with global leaders, and streamline procurement to reward genuine innovation. Exhorting arms companies to reach out to 'patriotism' in their 'profit-driven endeavours' alone won't conduct any meaningful strike.