India's defence strategy is evolving with indigenised technologies, as local innovations like the SkyStriker loitering munition lead the charge in enhancing precision strikes and national security

India's strategic doctrine is undergoing a quiet but powerful transformation—driven not just by intent, but by innovation. In recent high-intensity operations along the Line of Control (LoC) and in surgical strikes on cross-border terror infrastructure, ‘Make in India’ defence technology has emerged as a decisive force.

While public attention largely focused on Rafale jets deploying SCALP missiles and HAMMER precision bombs, a significant battlefield breakthrough came from a different source: the SkyStriker. This loitering munition platform marked the combat debut of a domestically manufactured kinetic solution. Originally developed by Israel’s Elbit Systems, the SkyStriker is produced in India under license by Alpha Design Technologies, now part of Adani Defence & Aerospace. Its deployment underscored the operational strength of indigenised defence systems.

Why It Matters

Loitering munitions—often referred to as “kamikaze drones”—bring unprecedented agility to reconnaissance and precision strikes. Their use in Operation Sindoor, conducted after the Pahalgam attack, highlights India's pivot towards autonomous, accurate, and home-grown strike capabilities.

And this is just the beginning.

Indian Defence-Tech Innovators Driving the Shift

Here are some of the leading players reshaping India's defence landscape:

Adani Defence & Aerospace

• Manufacturing the SkyStriker with proven combat performance.

• Expanding rapidly into drones, radar systems, and loitering munition platforms.

Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL)

• A mainstay in radar, electronic warfare, and military communication systems.

• Developers of the Swathi Weapon Locating Radar and advanced fire control systems.

ideaForge Technology

• A key supplier of high-end surveillance drones, including the NETRA V-series.

• IPO-listed and scaling operations under the Make in India initiative.

Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL)

• Partnering with Lockheed Martin and Boeing while building UAVs, missiles, and airframes locally.

• Investing in end-to-end defence manufacturing capabilities.

Tonbo Imaging

• Pioneers in battlefield imaging and night vision optics.

• Their thermal and multi-sensor technology is critical in counter-insurgency missions.

Paras Defence and Space Technologies

• Specialising in electro-optics, drone payloads, and advanced space components.

• Gaining ground with their anti-drone systems for border security applications.

A New Doctrine for Modern Warfare

India is no longer just deploying imported technology—we are designing, building, and operationalising it. From kinetic drones to AI-driven targeting, the modern Indian defence ecosystem spans across terrains—desert, snow, and cyberspace.

In South Asia’s evolving strategic landscape, where precision equates to power, Make in India has transformed from a slogan into a battlefield doctrine.

Let’s continue supporting Indian defence manufacturing and strengthen national security—one innovation at a time.