Rajnath Singh Pushes Forward Sudarshan Chakra Defence Shield
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced the establishment of a committee to review the 'Sudarshan Chakra' initiative — a planned sophisticated air defense system designed to operate similarly to Israel's Iron Dome — and to develop a practical implementation strategy.
Speaking at the Combined Commanders' Conference 2025 in Kolkata, the Defence Minister stressed the importance of creating a medium-term strategy covering the upcoming five years, along with a long-term blueprint for the following ten years, to realize this ambitious goal.
The Sudarshan Chakra initiative, initially revealed publicly by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his Independence Day speech at the Red Fort, seeks to establish a comprehensive defense mechanism to safeguard India against incoming aerial dangers, such as missiles, drones, and other airborne assaults.
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The Defence Minister "urged the Commanders to adopt a proactive stance and work toward constructing the Sudarshan Chakra as outlined by PM Modi," according to a Ministry of Defence statement. Senior leadership from the Army, Air Force, Navy, along with DRDO officials and the Defence Minister, are participating in the three-day Conference.
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To improve defense procurement processes in response to evolving warfare dynamics, Singh mentioned that following the release of the updated Defence Procurement Manual 2025, the Ministry is also revising the Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020 to make procurement simpler and faster, increase transparency, and deliver prompt assistance to the military forces.
He emphasized that self-sufficiency represents more than just a motto but constitutes a strategic imperative, noting that the domestic production campaign under Aatmanirbhar Bharat is generating employment opportunities, promoting innovation, and fortifying India's defense production infrastructure.
Drawing attention to the Prime Minister's core philosophy of "JAI – Jointness, Aatmanirbharta, and Innovation", the Minister urged military leaders to concentrate on smooth collaboration between all three armed services and with other strategic organizations through a comprehensive national strategy.
He stressed the continuing initiatives to enhance coordination and cooperation, such as creating Tri-Service Logistics Nodes and developing a Tri-Service Logistics Management Application, designed to encourage deeper integration.
The Defense Minister also highlighted the successes of Operation Sindoor, stating it demonstrated that power, strategic planning, and independence represent India's fundamental sources of strength in the current century.
The Defense Minister observed that modern conflict is changing quickly, characterized by unexpected eruptions, technological dominance, and unclear battle lines. "Contemporary wars are so unpredictable that estimating their length is nearly impossible — they might continue for months or extend to years. We need to stay ready with sufficient reserve capabilities," he stated.
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He reinforced the significance of India's defense industry becoming not just technologically advanced, but also independent and forward-thinking, equipped for both attack and defense missions.