Air Marshal Awadhesh Kumar Bharti, Deputy Chief of the Indian Air Force, has recently emphasized the critical need for a revolution in defence research and development (R&D) in India, citing "painfully slow" progress in achieving self-reliance. Speaking at Aero Tech India 2025, Air Marshal Bharti stressed that complete indigenization is not just desirable but vital for winning future wars, pointing out that even 99% indigenous content is insufficient if critical components remain import-dependent.
Bharti cautioned that relying on foreign sources for essential components could cripple India's ability to ramp up production during conflicts if those supply lines are disrupted. He urged manufacturers to strive for 100% indigenization within defined timelines, stating, "We need to put our innovation on afterburner. This cruise setting will not do". He called for accelerated innovation and localization within the defence sector.
The Air Marshal outlined the Indian Air Force's strategic roadmap for future warfare, emphasizing that military dominance will be determined by those who innovate faster, integrate better, and are self-reliant, rather than solely by the size of forces or firepower. He presented a multi-phase model of future conflict, highlighting the evolving role of technology and indigenous innovation in each phase:
- Pre-Kinetic Phase: This phase emphasizes persistent, survivable intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) systems in an informatized battlefield. Key technologies include AI-driven real-time data engines, quantum-resilient communications, blockchain-based mission systems, and integrated sensors across ground, air, and space platforms.
- Kinetic Phase: This phase involves a full-spectrum combat environment, from low-cost drones to sixth-generation fighter systems, and collaboration between humans and autonomous combat systems. A critical capability gap for India is weapon seeker technology.
Air Marshal Bharti identified key technology focus areas for defence manufacturers and startups, urging them to concentrate R&D efforts on: Quantum computing for secure defence communications; Scramjet engines for next-generation hypersonic missiles; Core aero-engine development to eliminate dependency on foreign engines; Directed energy weapons; and Counter-drone technologies.
Bharti's remarks underscore a significant shift in India's defence posture, moving from dependence to strategic autonomy and from being a consumer to a creator of defence technologies. He highlighted that for years, the Indian Air Force, in particular, has relied on foreign platforms, spare parts, and support systems, a scenario that is now rapidly evolving. He praised the Indian government for its support in developing the country's air defence system with robust infrastructure. He specifically acknowledged the stellar performance of the indigenous Akash air defence system.
Air Marshal Bharti's career reflects a commitment to enhancing India's aerial capabilities and ensuring national security. Commissioned into the fighter stream of the IAF in 1987, he has held key command positions, including Flight Commander of a Sukhoi-30MKI Squadron and Commanding Officer of No. 1 Squadron. He is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy (NDA), the Defence Services Staff College, and the National Defence College.
In conclusion, Air Marshal Bharti's call for a revolution in defence R&D highlights the urgent need for India to accelerate its indigenization efforts to achieve true strategic autonomy. His emphasis on innovation, technological advancement, and self-reliance provides a clear roadmap for the future of Indian air power and defence capabilities.