India has unveiled an ambitious 15-year defence modernisation roadmap that includes plans to build its first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier and deploy domestically manufactured fighter jets on its naval vessels.
This new defence push, according to Reuters, is backed by a budget of approximately 6.81 trillion rupees (ยฃ64 billion) for the current fiscal year, reinforcing Indiaโs position as the worldโs fourth-largest defence spender. The initiative aims to ensure the Indian armed forces are equipped to handle emerging challenges over the coming decades.
The strategy, announced by the defence ministry on Friday, marks a significant shift towards greater self-reliance and enhanced naval capabilities.
Bordered by strategic rivals China and Pakistan, India is moving to reduce its long-standing dependence on foreign defence suppliers such as Russia, France, and the United States.
The new blueprint emphasises increased private-public sector collaboration to bolster national security infrastructure.
The proposed nuclear-powered carrier would be Indiaโs third aircraft carrier and its first with nuclear propulsion, offering extended operational range and stealthier manoeuvrability.
The plan also includes the development of at least ten nuclear propulsion systems to support future warships, signalling Indiaโs intent to expand its influence across the Indian Ocean region.
In a major push for indigenous defence production, the roadmap outlines the induction of new-generation twin-engine deck-based fighters and light combat aircraft developed by state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. This would mark the first time the Indian Navy operates home-built fighter jets on its carriers.
The modernisation plan comes amid rising regional tensions. The document also highlights the expanded use of drones, which proved highly effective during recent conflicts with Pakistan. Additional advanced technologies such as electromagnetic aircraft launch systemsโused by the U.S. Navy to launch jets from carriersโare also part of the procurement strategy.
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