Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, PVSM, AVSM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) of India’s Southern Command, has underscored the critical role of indigenous defence manufacturing in advancing the nation’s self-reliance goals during a visit to Hyderabad’s leading defence industries. His tour highlights the growing synergy between the military, academia, and private sector in shaping India’s defence capabilities.
At Zen Technologies, Lt Gen Seth reviewed a range of advanced systems, including counter-drone technologies, loiter munitions, remote-controlled weapon systems, tactical engagement simulators, containerised small arms ranges, and next-generation combat training platforms. He commended the company’s commitment to developing cutting-edge solutions tailored for modern warfare, emphasising the importance of innovation in maintaining a competitive edge.
“Indigenous defence manufacturing is not just about reducing reliance on imports—it’s about empowering our forces with tailor-made solutions that meet the unique challenges of contemporary warfare,” Lt Gen Seth said. “Zen Technologies is a prime example of how Indian industry is rising to this challenge.”
The Army Commander also visited Adani Defence & Aerospace, where he was briefed on the firm’s diverse portfolio, spanning advanced UAVs, drones, counter-drone systems, missiles, small arms, defence electronics, and ammunition manufacturing. He noted that such indigenous capabilities are essential for enhancing India’s defence preparedness and reducing dependency on foreign suppliers.
“Adani Defence & Aerospace is playing a pivotal role in strengthening our defence ecosystem,” Lt Gen Seth remarked. “Their work in developing advanced UAVs and counter-drone systems is particularly noteworthy, as these technologies are critical in safeguarding our borders and critical infrastructure.”
Beyond technological advancements, Lt Gen Seth called for stronger industry-academia-military partnerships to accelerate research-driven solutions, innovation, and entrepreneurship. He praised Hyderabad’s growing reputation as a hub of defence technology excellence, urging stakeholders to collaborate more closely to foster a culture of innovation.
“Hyderabad has emerged as a key player in India’s defence technology landscape,” he said. “By bringing together the best minds from industry, academia, and the military, we can drive breakthroughs that will define the future of warfare.”
As India continues to prioritise self-reliance in defence, Lt Gen Seth’s visit serves as a reminder of the strategic importance of fostering domestic innovation. The collaboration between defence industries, academic institutions, and the military will be crucial in shaping India’s defence capabilities for decades to come.