At the convocation of the Defence Institute of Advanced Technology (DIAT) in Pune, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) chairman Samir V Kamat delivered a powerful message: Operation Sindoor was not just a military success, but a demonstration of India’s growing self-reliance in defence technology. The operation, conducted along India’s western borders, showcased the effectiveness of indigenous systems in modern warfare.
“Operation Sindoor’s success was powered by homegrown systems,” Kamat declared, highlighting the critical role of Indian innovation in the mission. Among the systems that played a decisive role were the Akash short- and medium-range surface-to-air missiles, the BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, the D4 anti-drone system, airborne early warning and control platforms, the Akashteer air defence control system, and advanced C4I systems. These technologies, developed by the DRDO and supported by institutions like DIAT, underscored India’s ability to design, produce, and deploy cutting-edge military solutions.
Kamat framed Operation Sindoor as more than a military operation—it was a declaration of India’s strategic autonomy. “This was a declaration of India’s ability to stand tall through self-reliance, strategic foresight, and indigenous innovation,” he said. His remarks came at a time when India is pushing to reduce its dependence on foreign defence imports and strengthen its domestic defence industrial base.
The DRDO chief also emphasised the importance of the graduates’ roles in shaping India’s future defence capabilities. He noted that DIAT graduates are not generalists but specialists in critical domains such as quantum technology, cybersecurity, robotics, propulsion, missile systems, materials engineering, and artificial intelligence (AI). These skills, he argued, are directly applicable to national security and will be crucial in an increasingly unstable geopolitical climate.
“In an increasingly unstable geopolitical climate, your expertise in developing hypersonic propulsion, stealth technologies, cyber defence, space deterrence, and AI-led combat systems will be vital,” Kamat told the graduates. His words carried weight, as India seeks to position itself as a global technology leader by 2047.
Beyond defence, Kamat highlighted the growing demand for Indian defence exports, particularly in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Africa. This trend reflects not only the effectiveness of Indian defence technology but also the country’s ability to compete in the global market.
As India continues to invest in its defence sector, the success of Operation Sindoor serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved through innovation, strategic vision, and self-reliance. For the graduates of DIAT, the challenge is clear: to build on this momentum and ensure that India remains at the forefront of defence technology in the years to come.
