India’s Indigenous Air Defence by 2035

India to Build Indigenous Air Defence by 2035

Why in the News ?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his Independence Day address, announced the launch of ‘Sudarshan Chakra’, India’s first indigenous air defence system, to be completed by 2035. The mission aims to provide comprehensive security cover to both strategic and civilian areas.

India’s Indigenous Air Defence by 2035

Government’s Vision for National Security:

  • The ‘Sudarshan Chakra’ mission will act as a security shield for important sites such as hospitals, railway stations, and strategic locations.
  • By 2035, every citizen should feel safe under this advanced technological protection system.
  • The PM stressed that self-reliance (Atmanirbharta) is essential, as national security cannot rest on foreign dependence.
  • The plan is to expand, strengthen, and modernise the national security shield over the next decade.
  • The mission draws inspiration from Lord Krishna’s mythological shield – the Sudarshan Chakra.

Recent Achievements & Strategic Context

  • India currently deploys three S-400 missile systems purchased from Russia, which successfully neutralised Pakistani drones and missiles during Operation Sindoor (May 2024).
  • The Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS) ensured air superiority over Pakistan.
  • The PM hailed Operation Sindoor as proof of India’s strategic autonomy and strength of ‘Made-in-India’ defence technologies.
  • India rejected nuclear blackmail and foreign terms, showcasing decisive military capability.
  • Modi also criticised the Indus Waters Treaty, calling it unjust and reaffirming that India will no longer compromise on national interests.
  • He urged youth and innovators to develop indigenous jet engines, citing India’s success with COVID-19 vaccines and UPI as proof of capability.

Key Defence, Security and Legal Frameworks :

●      Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS): A secure automated network that integrates radars, sensors, and communication systems to ensure real-time monitoring of airspace.

●      S-400 Triumf: Long-range surface-to-air missile system from Russia, capable of intercepting aircraft, drones, and ballistic missiles up to 400 km away.

●      Transplantation of Human Organs & Tissues Act, 1994 (THOTA): Regulates organ donation and transplantation in India.

●      Operation Sindoor (2024): First major combat showcasing Made-in-India weapon systems in neutralising cross-border threats.