India Strengthens Its Role as a Trusted Global Defence Partner, Says Modi

New Delhi, India Jul 27, 2026 ALN: New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday asserted that India is emerging as a trusted global defence partner and the country continues to strengthen its defence capabilities. Addressing his monthly radio broadcast ‘Mann Ki Baat’, he also paid rich tributes to the Indian soldiers who fought in the Kargil war.

Despite harsh weather and the enemy’s challenges, they showed extraordinary courage during the 1999 conflict with Pakistan, he noted. “Kargil Vijay Diwas fills us with pride. This day reminds us of the extraordinary courage of our brave soldiers,” he said. The Kargil War, which took place between May and July 1999, was a significant conflict between India and Pakistan that arose out of territorial disputes in the Kargil district of Jammu and Kashmir. The war was marked by the infiltration of Pakistani soldiers and militants into Indian territory, leading to fierce battles in the high-altitude region. The sacrifices made by Indian soldiers during this conflict have been commemorated annually, serving as a reminder of their bravery and dedication to the nation.

The Kargil conflict is often regarded as a turning point in India-Pakistan relations, highlighting the ongoing tensions over the Kashmir region, which both nations claim in full but control in parts. The war resulted in a decisive victory for India, but it also underscored the need for robust defence capabilities and strategic planning in the face of external threats. The remembrance of Kargil Vijay Diwas serves not only as a tribute to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives but also as a reminder of the importance of national security in the contemporary geopolitical landscape.

The Prime Minister stated that today, whether in defence production or defence exports, India is consistently moving towards new heights. “India is emerging as a trusted global defence partner and the country continues to strengthen its defence capabilities,” he emphasized. This assertion comes at a time when India is increasingly positioning itself as a key player in the global defence landscape. With a growing emphasis on self-reliance in defence manufacturing, India has been focusing on enhancing its indigenous capabilities while also expanding its role in international defence collaborations.

Modi mentioned that at the beginning of July, he was in Indonesia, where a major agreement was reached for the BrahMos and Astra missiles. The BrahMos missile, a supersonic cruise missile developed jointly by India and Russia, has gained international acclaim for its speed and precision. The Astra missile, on the other hand, is an air-to-air missile that has been developed to enhance the capabilities of the Indian Air Force. The agreement with Indonesia underscores India's commitment to enhancing bilateral defence ties with other nations and reflects a growing trend of defence cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.

The Indo-Pacific region has become a focal point for global defence strategies, particularly with the rise of China's military assertiveness. Nations in this region are increasingly seeking partnerships to bolster their defence capabilities and ensure regional stability. India's role as a trusted partner is vital, as it has a long history of military cooperation and strategic dialogues with countries like Japan, Australia, and the United States. The strengthening of these alliances is critical as nations navigate the complexities of regional security dynamics.

This month, he said, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) also successfully tested the Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket. The Pinaka system is designed to enhance the artillery capabilities of the Indian Army, allowing for effective long-range bombardment. Such advancements not only bolster India’s defence preparedness but also signify the country’s technological advancements in military hardware.

“Behind this success is the collective hard work of our scientists and engineers. Just two to three days ago, DRDO successfully tested the Kusha missile as well,” he added. The Kusha missile, a tactical weapon system, is part of India’s efforts to develop a robust and diverse arsenal capable of addressing various threats. The successful testing of these missiles showcases the capabilities of Indian defence research and highlights the importance of homegrown technology in national security.

In recent years, India has made significant strides in defence technology, focusing on developing advanced systems that are not only effective but also cost-efficient. The emphasis on indigenous production aligns with the government's broader 'Make in India' initiative, which aims to transform India into a manufacturing hub. By promoting local production, the government seeks to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers and foster innovation within the country.

Modi expressed that every citizen is filled with pride following the successful launch of Vikram-1 last Sunday, marking a historic moment in India’s space sector. “This is India’s first rocket developed by the private sector. Our young innovators have achieved what was once hard even to imagine. They demonstrated incredible skill, passion, and patience,” he remarked. The launch of Vikram-1, developed by a private Indian company, represents a significant milestone in the country’s space exploration efforts. It highlights the growing role of the private sector in India’s space program, which has traditionally been dominated by governmental agencies like the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

The success of Vikram-1 is emblematic of the changing landscape of India’s space endeavors. The increasing involvement of private companies in space technology not only accelerates innovation but also opens up new avenues for collaboration and investment. As India seeks to enhance its presence in the global space arena, these developments are crucial for fostering a competitive edge in technology and research.

“From the successful launch of Vikram-1 to India’s impressive performance in international science Olympiads, the country continues to make its mark in science and innovation,” he concluded. This statement reflects a broader trend of India striving for excellence in various fields of science and technology. The achievements in the space sector, coupled with advancements in defence technology, underscore the country’s aspirations to be a leader in global innovation.

India’s growing role as a trusted global defence partner is also influenced by its strategic geopolitical positioning. With rising tensions in regions such as the Indo-Pacific and the Middle East, countries are increasingly looking towards India for collaboration in defence matters. The strengthening of defence ties with nations like the United States, Japan, and Australia through initiatives like the Quad (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue) further emphasizes India’s commitment to regional security and stability.

The Quad, comprising the United States, Japan, Australia, and India, has emerged as a significant strategic alliance aimed at ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific. The collaboration among these nations encompasses various aspects, including maritime security, counter-terrorism, and infrastructure development. India's active participation in the Quad reflects its intent to play a pivotal role in shaping the security architecture of the Indo-Pacific region.

Moreover, India's focus on self-reliance in defence production, encapsulated in the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (self-reliant India) initiative, aims to reduce dependence on foreign arms imports. The government has introduced various policies to facilitate domestic manufacturing, including financial incentives and streamlined procurement processes. This shift not only aims to bolster India’s defence capabilities but also to create jobs and stimulate economic growth within the country.

The 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative is part of a larger vision to enhance India's economic resilience and capacity for self-sufficiency. By investing in local industries and fostering innovation, the government hopes to build a robust defence ecosystem that can respond to both internal and external challenges. This initiative is crucial for ensuring that India can independently meet its defence needs while also contributing to global security.

In conclusion, Prime Minister Modi's remarks reflect a broader vision for India as a rising power on the global stage, particularly in defence and technology. The emphasis on both indigenous capabilities and international collaborations signals a multifaceted approach to national security and economic development. As India continues to enhance its defence production and export capabilities, it is likely to play an increasingly influential role in shaping regional and global security dynamics in the years to come.