In 2025, India continued to solidify its position as one of the fastest modernising defence powers in the world. The global geopolitical environment has grown increasingly complex, making defence modernisation a top priority for nations like India.
The Indian defence sector in 2025 reflected a perfect blend of modernisation, indigenous innovation, and strategic foresight. India is not only investing heavily in state-of-the-art equipment but is also focusing on strengthening its Aatmanirbharta or self-reliance in defence production. Each of these developments demonstrates India’s commitment to ensure that its armed forces are well-prepared, technologically superior, and capable of defending national interests in an evolving security environment and the shifting geopolitical sands.
For the Indian tri-services, from domestic manufacturing to international collaborations, these developments highlighted India’s ambitious approach toward becoming a global defence leader. The year 2025 marked a milestone for India as it continued to implement long-term strategies and large-scale projects that have been in planning for years.
Rear Admiral Sudhir Pillai (Retd) opined that in 2025, India’s defence reforms began edging from episodic initiatives toward structural intent. The declaration 2025 as the ‘Year of Reforms’ signalled ambition, though much of that intent still awaits translation into durable institutional outcomes. Operation Sindoor was the year’s most instructive operational moment. It demonstrated precision and restraint, but to military minds the limits of ad hoc joint coordination and crisis-driven decision-making were evident. Sindoor also highlighted risks within policy tools such as the Positive Indigenisation List.
The Indian defence sector in 2025 reflected a perfect blend of modernisation, indigenous innovation, and strategic foresight. India is not only investing heavily in state-of-the-art equipment but is also focusing on strengthening its Aatmanirbharta or self-reliance in defence production. Each of these developments demonstrates India’s commitment to ensure that its armed forces are well-prepared, technologically superior, and capable of defending national interests in an evolving security environment and the shifting geopolitical sands
Indian Army Continued Modernisation in 2025
The Indian Army, one of the largest and most sophisticated land forces in the world, has been undergoing a significant transformation. Modernisation has become the cornerstone of India’s defence strategy, aiming to enhance operational efficiency, mobility, and combat readiness. Army’s modernisation is critical, given the challenges posed by both conventional and asymmetric threats along the borders.
In the Army, one key focus area in 2025 was the upgrade of infantry weapons and artillery systems. The army introduced next-generation assault rifles, sniper rifles, and advanced artillery guns that provide higher accuracy and lethality. Indigenous systems like the Dhanush artillery gun and upgraded T-90 tanks replaced older models, ensuring that India’s ground forces are well-equipped for modern warfare.
Mechanised infantry units were also strengthened with new infantry combat vehicles and armoured personnel carriers, which offer superior protection and mobility. Integration of AI-driven battlefield management systems was another game-changer, enabling real-time data analysis, decision-making, and troop deployment. These systems enhanced situational awareness, allowing commanders to respond swiftly to emerging threats.
Border security was prioritised during the year. The Indian Army deployed advanced surveillance systems, including drones, thermal imaging devices, and long-range radar systems along sensitive areas. These upgrades not only deter intrusions but also enhance intelligence-gathering capabilities.
In the Army, one key focus area in 2025 was the upgrade of infantry weapons and artillery systems. The army introduced next-generation assault rifles, sniper rifles, and advanced artillery guns that provide higher accuracy and lethality. Indigenous systems like the Dhanush artillery gun and upgraded T-90 tanks replaced older models, ensuring that India’s ground forces are well-equipped for modern warfare
Training programmes have been revamped to incorporate modern combat techniques, cyber warfare defence, and counter-terrorism strategies. Special forces units were equipped with high-tech gear, ensuring readiness for complex operations. Additionally, logistics and supply chains were also modernised to ensure faster mobilisation of troops and equipment during emergencies.
This focus on modernisation ensured that the Indian Army remained agile, technologically advanced, and capable of responding to a wide spectrum of threats.
Indian Navy Transformed to a Builders Navy
India’s naval capabilities witnessed significant upgrades, reflecting the nation’s growing emphasis on maritime security in 2025. The expansion of the Indian Navy ensured that India can protect its vast coastline, secure maritime trade routes, and project power in the Indian Ocean region.
Commenting on Indian Navy’s achievements in 2025, Vivek Merchant, Director, Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Limited (SDHI) said, “The past year was an inflection point for the Indian maritime ecosystem, with a strong policy intent converging into tangible action. The impact of it can be seen in the unprecedented momentum garnered in industry-wide collaborations and the highest-ever investment pledged at INR 12 lakh crore during IMW 2025 for shipbuilding, shipping, and related maritime infrastructure.”
One of the most prominent developments was the induction of new stealth warships, submarines, and aircraft carriers. INS Vikrant, India’s first indigenously built aircraft carrier, became fully operational during 2025, marking a historic milestone for the navy. Advanced destroyers and frigates equipped with state-of-the-art radar and missile systems enhanced India’s naval combat capabilities.
Submarine modernisation was another major aspect. The navy deployed nuclear-powered attack submarines and conventional diesel-electric submarines equipped with advanced sonar systems and missile capabilities. These submarines provide a strategic deterrent while enhancing India’s underwater combat capabilities.
Naval aviation also received significant attention. The induction of maritime patrol aircraft, anti-submarine warfare helicopters, and UAVs enhanced the navy’s surveillance and reconnaissance abilities. These systems are vital for monitoring key shipping lanes and detecting potential threats early.
For the Indian Navy one of the most prominent developments was the induction of new stealth warships, submarines, and aircraft carriers. INS Vikrant, India’s first indigenously built aircraft carrier, became fully operational during 2025, marking a historic milestone for the navy. Advanced destroyers and frigates equipped with state-of-the-art radar and missile systems enhanced India’s naval combat capabilities
The Indian Navy in 2025 increasingly focussed on joint exercises with friendly nations, strengthening interoperability, and sharing best practices. Exercises such as MALABAR, with US, Japan, and Australia, and demonstrated India’s growing strategic footprint in the Indo-Pacific region.
Investment in indigenous shipbuilding was a key part of this development. Collaborations between Indian shipyards and defence startups accelerated the production of advanced warships and submarines. This not only boosted self-reliance but also generated employment and promoted technological innovation.
Expansion and upgrades in the Indian Navy reflected India’s commitment to ensuring maritime security, safeguarding national interests, and maintaining a strong presence in international waters.
Casting an eye on the future, Merchant further said that indigenisation in shipbuilding will require a careful balance between domestic capability-building and cost competitiveness, given the sector’s continuing dependence on imports for critical components. Strengthening R&D, deepening public-private partnerships, and fostering global collaborations in 2026 will aid Aatmanirbhar Bharat goals in the long run.
Indian Air Force Continued with Technological Advancements
The Indian Air Force (IAF) continued to undergo a technological revolution, making it one of the most advanced air forces in the world. The air force modernisation focused on integrating cutting-edge technologies, enhancing combat efficiency, and maintaining air superiority in 2025.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) continued to undergo a technological revolution, making it one of the most advanced air forces in the world. The air force modernisation focused on integrating cutting-edge technologies, enhancing combat efficiency, and maintaining air superiority in 2025
The deployment of 5th-generation fighter jets like HAL Tejas Mk2 was a significant milestone. These aircraft are equipped with advanced avionics, stealth capabilities, and superior firepower, enabling the IAF to execute precise air operations. Upgrades in radar systems, missile defence, and communication networks ensured seamless integration across platforms.
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and drones were deployed in large numbers for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR). They provided real-time battlefield information, reduced risk to human pilots, and allowed rapid targeting of enemy assets. AI-driven systems further enhanced threat detection, mission planning, and operational efficiency.
Commenting on the usefulness of the drones for the tri-services, Sai Pattabiram, Founder and Managing Director – Zuppa Geo Navigation Technologies said though the Indian drone sector faced major setbacks in 2024, including the hacking of a tactical drone and the Manipur bombings, revealing significant cyber vulnerabilities and highlighting drones as dual-use technologies. These incidents also exposed gaps during Operation Sindoor, pushing defence policymakers to seek solutions that address both operational security and technological resilience.
This led to a strong emphasis on indigenisation and aiming to reduce reliance on foreign sourced components and foster innovation within India. Globally, NATO countries are facing similar challenges and are also investing in cybersecurity and indigenous development for drones. These developments of the past year present an excellent opportunity for India to realise its global drone hub ambitions, Pattabiram further said.
The modernisation also included advanced air defence systems with long-range surface-to-air missiles, early warning radars, and electronic warfare capabilities. These systems are crucial for protecting strategic locations and military assets.
Joint exercises with international partners, such as the US, France, and Israel, and enhanced interoperability allowed the IAF to adopt best practices from leading air forces. Training programmes have been revamped to include advanced combat tactics, cyber warfare preparedness, and high-altitude operations.
Commenting on the usefulness of the drones for the tri-services, Sai Pattabiram, Founder and Managing Director – Zuppa Geo Navigation Technologies said though the Indian drone sector faced major setbacks in 2025, including the hacking of a tactical drone and the Manipur bombings, revealing significant cyber vulnerabilities and highlighting drones as dual-use technologies. These incidents also exposed gaps during Operation Sindoor, pushing defence policymakers to seek solutions that address both operational security and technological resilience
Maintenance and logistics were also upgraded using AI-based predictive maintenance systems. These systems ensured higher aircraft availability, reduced downtime, and optimised operational readiness.
Indigenous Defence Manufacturing Further Strengthened
Aatmanirbharta in defence production became a core objective of India’s strategic vision in 2025. The ‘Make in India’ initiative gained tremendous momentum, making indigenous manufacturing a key development for the Indian defence.
India is now producing a wide range of defence equipment domestically, including rifles, tanks, fighter jets, submarines, and missiles. This will reduce dependence on foreign imports, strengthen national security, and boost the economy. DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation) has been at the forefront of this movement, developing cutting-edge technologies in collaboration with private industries.
Private sector involvement increased rapidly. Indian startups and defence companies innovated in areas like AI-powered drones, cyber defence solutions, and advanced weaponry. Government policies encouraged partnerships, technology transfers, and joint ventures with global defence firms, ensuring access to modern technologies.
Significant projects included indigenous fighter jets, such as the HAL Tejas Mk2, and naval platforms like INS Vikrant. Missile programmes like Agni and BrahMos are now largely indigenously developed and have achieved global recognition. The army, navy, and air force are increasingly relying on the Indian manufactured systems for operational readiness.
Investments in research and development also surged. Advanced laboratories, testing facilities, and simulation centres allowed India to innovate rapidly and reduce lead time for critical defence projects. Intellectual property rights and patent policies are being strengthened to protect homegrown technologies.
By strengthening indigenous defence manufacturing, India ensured sustainable development, economic growth, and technological leadership.
India is now producing a wide range of defence equipment domestically, including rifles, tanks, fighter jets, submarines, and missiles. This will reduce dependence on foreign imports, strengthen national security, and boost the economy. DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation) has been at the forefront of this movement, developing cutting-edge technologies in collaboration with private industries
International Defence Cooperation and Strategic Alliances
In 2025, India continued to enhance its global defence footprint through strategic alliances and international collaborations. Overall, these partnerships played a vital role in technology sharing, joint exercises, and capacity building.
India strengthened defence cooperation with countries like the United States, France, Israel, and Russia. These collaborations included joint exercises, technology transfers, and procurement of advanced equipment. They allowed India to access cutting-edge technologies while fostering strong diplomatic ties.
India’s participation in multilateral defence forums, such as the QUAD, further enhanced its strategic influence in the Indo-Pacific region. Regular naval and air force exercises with partner nations improved interoperability, readiness, and operational efficiency.
Technology-sharing agreements also enabled India to develop advanced missile systems, radar technologies, and cybersecurity solutions. Collaborations with global defence firms accelerated innovation and reduced the time required to deploy new systems.
Defence diplomacy also played a crucial role in deterrence. By building strong alliances, India strengthened its strategic position, discouraged aggression, and promoted regional stability. Training programmes, knowledge exchanges, and capacity-building initiatives were key components of these partnerships.
Overall, strategic alliances and international defence cooperation formed a vital aspect Indian defence sector in 2025. They enhanced India’s global standing, improved defence capabilities, and ensured long-term security in an increasingly complex geopolitical environment.
Defence diplomacy also played a crucial role in deterrence. By building strong alliances, India strengthened its strategic position, discouraged aggression, and promoted regional stability. Training programmes, knowledge exchanges, and capacity-building initiatives were key components of these partnerships
Integrating Cybersecurity and Defence Technology
In 2025, cybersecurity emerged as a critical component of India’s defence strategy. Integrating cyber capabilities into military operations also became indispensable for maintaining national security. Modern warfare increasingly relies on digital networks, and thus protection of sensitive defence infrastructure is paramount.
India invested heavily in developing advanced cyber defence capabilities to protect its armed forces from cyber-attacks. These included intrusion detection systems, secure communication networks, and AI-driven threat analysis platforms. By safeguarding communication and operational systems, India ensured that critical defence data remained secure.
The integration of cybersecurity extended to battlefield management systems, drones, and unmanned vehicles, also. The focus on AI-driven cybersecurity solutions allowed the armed forces to detect, predict, and neutralise cyber threats efficiently.
India also established dedicated military cyber units to monitor potential threats and respond to cyber incidents with agility. These units were trained to conduct ethical hacking, vulnerability assessments, and rapid-response operations to mitigate risks. Partnerships with international cybersecurity firms and think tanks further enhanced India’s defensive capabilities.
Training programmes for personnel were updated to include cyber warfare preparedness. Soldiers and officers are now educated on cybersecurity protocols, secure data handling, and operational resilience in digital environments. This integration ensured that India remained ahead in modern warfare domains.
Hypersonic technology was another focus area. India successfully tested hypersonic missiles capable of traveling at speeds exceeding Mach 5. These systems enhanced India’s ability to respond swiftly to emerging threats and maintain technological parity with global powers
Advanced Weaponry and Missile Development
Missile systems and advanced weaponry are a cornerstone of India’s defence modernisation. In 2025, India’s missile programmes achieved significant milestones, contributing to deterrence, strategic stability, and technological prowess.
The Agni series of ballistic missiles, including Agni-P and Agni-V, enhanced India’s long-range strike capabilities. These missiles are equipped with precision guidance systems and are capable of carrying conventional and nuclear warheads. Their development underscored India’s commitment to maintaining credible deterrence.
India also made progress in the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile programme, which now includes air-launched and naval variants. BrahMos missiles provide rapid-response strike capability, allowing the armed forces to neutralise threats effectively. Indigenous missile development reduced dependence on imports and enhanced strategic autonomy.
Hypersonic technology was another focus area. India successfully tested hypersonic missiles capable of traveling at speeds exceeding Mach 5. These systems enhanced India’s ability to respond swiftly to emerging threats and maintain technological parity with global powers.
The army, navy, and air force are integrating advanced weaponry with modern surveillance systems, ensuring precision strikes and efficient target acquisition. Laser-guided systems, smart munitions, and AI-assisted targeting are now part of India’s operational framework.
Missile defence systems, such as the Prithvi Air Defence (PAD) and Advanced Air Defence (AAD), provided protection against incoming ballistic threats. These systems are now part of a comprehensive defence shield, ensuring that India is well-prepared against potential attacks.
Overall, missile development and advanced weaponry showcased India’s technological capabilities, enhanced strategic deterrence, and ensured that the armed forces can respond to both conventional and unconventional threats in the future.
Space and Satellite-Based Defence Systems
In 2025, India expanded its focus on space-based defence capabilities, making this a key part of Indian defence ecosystem. Space and satellite technologies provide critical support for communication, surveillance, navigation, and missile guidance, ensuring a comprehensive approach to modern warfare.
India also focused on space-based missile defence technologies and early-warning systems to detect potential threats from hostile nations. By integrating satellite intelligence with ground-based radar and AI-driven analytics, the armed forces can respond swiftly to emerging dangers
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and DRDO collaborated to enhance satellite capabilities for defence applications. India’s military satellites provided secure communication channels for armed forces, enabling real-time coordination during operations.
Reconnaissance and surveillance satellites played a pivotal role in monitoring borders, detecting threats, and collecting intelligence. High-resolution imagery and real-time data analysis improved situational awareness and decision-making. These systems are crucial for both strategic planning and tactical battlefield operations.
Navigation satellites, such as the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS), ensured precise location tracking and guidance for missiles, drones, and artillery units.
India also focused on space-based missile defence technologies and early-warning systems to detect potential threats from hostile nations. By integrating satellite intelligence with ground-based radar and AI-driven analytics, the armed forces can respond swiftly to emerging dangers.
The development of anti-satellite (ASAT) capabilities underscored India’s commitment to protect its space assets. Successful ASAT tests demonstrated India’s readiness to defend critical space infrastructure in case of conflict.
AI and Robotics in the Defence Sector
Artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics are transforming the way modern militaries operate. Thus, India increasingly adopted AI and robotic technologies to enhance operational efficiency, reduce human risk, and improve decision-making on the battlefield.
AI applications in defence include predictive analytics for threat assessment, autonomous systems for logistics, and real-time monitoring of battlefield conditions. Machine learning algorithms help in analysing large volumes of data, enabling commanders to make faster and more informed decisions.
India invested heavily in developing advanced cyber defence capabilities to protect its armed forces from cyber-attacks. These included intrusion detection systems, secure communication networks, and AI-driven threat analysis platforms. By safeguarding communication and operational systems, India ensured that critical defence data remained secure
Robotics was being integrated into areas such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), autonomous ground vehicles, and naval drones. These systems perform surveillance, reconnaissance, and even offensive operations without putting human lives at risk. They also reduced operational fatigue and improve mission success rates.
India also initiated programmes for AI-assisted cybersecurity, ensuring that defence networks are protected from cyber-attacks. AI-driven threat detection systems continuously monitor vulnerabilities, identify breaches, and recommend corrective actions.
In training and simulations, AI provides realistic scenarios for soldiers and officers, enhancing combat preparedness and strategic planning. Virtual environments allowed personnel to practice high-risk missions safely and efficiently.
Skill Development Programmes and Advanced Training
Modernisation of the armed forces is incomplete without focussing on human resources. During the year, advanced training and skill development programmes ensured that India’s defence personnel could operate next-generation systems and maintain operational excellence.
The armed forces during the year revamped training programmes to include cyber warfare, AI applications, drone operations, and missile technology. Specialised centres provide hands-on experience with cutting-edge equipment, ensuring that personnel remain proficient in modern warfare techniques.
India also initiated programmes for AI-assisted cybersecurity, ensuring that defence networks are protected from cyber-attacks. AI-driven threat detection systems continuously monitor vulnerabilities, identify breaches, and recommend corrective actions
Joint exercises with international partners became a standard part of training. These exercises expose Indian forces to global best practices, improve interoperability, and enhance combat readiness. Programs like Yudh Abhyas and Exercise Shakti provided valuable insights into strategic and tactical operations.
Simulation technology, virtual reality, and AI-driven training platforms allowed personnel to practice complex missions safely. These tools help soldiers prepare for high-stress scenarios, including counter-terrorism operations, border skirmishes, and cyber threats.
Leadership and strategic management programmes were also emphasised. Officers were trained to make critical decisions under pressure, manage resources efficiently, and coordinate multi-domain operations involving the army, navy, and air force.
Skill development initiatives extended to technical personnel as well. Engineers, technicians, and defence researchers were trained in maintaining, upgrading, and innovating defence equipment. This ensured that India remained technologically self-reliant while reducing downtime for advanced systems.
Puneet Kaura, Managing Director and CEO, Samtel Avionics Ltd said, “As we look forward to 2026, our focus should be on deepening R&D, expanding into emerging domains such as unmanned systems and space electronics, and accelerating global partnerships and exports. The government’s reform momentum this year has had a visible impact at ground level – unlocking investment, encouraging private participation, and enabling faster deployment of ‘Made In India’ defence solutions.”
Similarly, Rear Admiral Sudhir Pillai (Retd), opined that the outlook for 2026 must be decisive. Without empowered joint structures, predictable funding, meaningful roles for private industry, and integration with global value chains, reform risks falling behind the accelerating technology and character of warfare shaped by Trump’s transactionalism, Xi’s systemic militarisation, and Putin’s coercive revisionism.”
Commenting on the outlook for the Indian defence sector, particularly for the naval sector in the coming year, Merchant further said that, “Looking ahead, one can be sure that this sectoral buoyancy will gather momentum in 2026. Significant progress is expected in the infrastructure expansion of Indian shipyards and the development of maritime clusters as the government gears to deploy its war chest to expand national capacity. There will still be measured optimism within the sector due to continued global uncertainties and geopolitical dynamics.”
Overall, 2025 represented a milestone for India’s defence sector. With a focus on modernisation, innovation, and strategic partnerships, the nation is poised to continue its journey toward becoming a global leader in defence technology and military capability.
-The writer is a New Delhi-based senior commentator on international and strategic affairs, environmental issues, an interfaith practitioner, and a media consultant. The views expressed are personal and do not necessarily carry the views of Raksha Anirveda
