On the second day of Aero India 2025, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi visited various defence industry booths to see the latest developments in military technology. His visit brought everyone's attention to the Indian Army’s commitment to using more homegrown technology, reducing dependence on foreign equipment, and staying ahead with modern advancements.
During his tour, General Upendra Dwivedi interacted with Indian and international defence companies, learning about the newest innovations. These included advanced drones, anti-drone systems, high-tech aviation platforms and state-of-the-art missile technology.
General Upendra Dwivedi shows that 85% of the Army’s purchases come from Indian manufacturers. He said, “We have important needs for UAVs, counter-UAVs, aviation platforms, Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGMs), and Man-Portable Air Defence Systems (MANPADS). We are working closely with the Indian industry to upgrade our equipment and maintain a strong defence system.”
He also praised the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) program, indicating that the Army has logged 40,000 flight hours in the past two years, proving its effectiveness. “Except for one minor issue, we have had no major problems. Moving forward, we aim to ensure that all our essential military equipment is made in India, as self-reliance remains our top priority,” he added.
General Upendra Dwivedi shows the strong connection between the Army and the defence industry. He said, “We work with industry experts from the very beginning of a project. As seen at Aero India, Indian manufacturers are successfully meeting the Army’s evolving needs.” This partnership helps the Army get the best equipment for modern warfare challenges.
During his visit, the COAS explored several leading defence company stalls, gaining insights into advancements in surveillance systems, missile technolog, and aerospace platforms. He also observed a static display of aviation platforms, assessing their role in military operations.
Aero India 2025 highlights India’s continuous efforts to become self-sufficient in defence manufacturing. General Upendra Dwivedi’s visit supported the Army’s commitment to working with both Indian and international companies to improve its military capabilities. With a vision for the future, the Indian Army is determined to use cutting-edge technology to tackle emerging security challenges effectively. (PR)