Global Confidence in India’s Defence Technology Soars, Says PM Modi

During the 136th episode of his monthly radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a moment to talk about something that rarely gets front‑page glory – the world’s growing confidence in India’s defence technology.

He started off casually, as he often does, acknowledging that India’s defence ecosystem has come a long way. “From indigenous production lines to fresh export markets and deeper strategic ties, Bharat is scaling new heights,” he said, his voice carrying that familiar mix of optimism and resolve.

Modi then zeroed in on a concrete example that had just unfolded a few weeks earlier: a bilateral agreement with Indonesia signed during his visit to Jakarta from July 6‑8. The deal covers the supply of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles and Astra beyond‑visual‑range air‑to‑air missiles – two of India’s most sophisticated weapons systems.

“When I was in Indonesia, we sealed a major pact for the BrahMos and Astra missiles. That, my friends, is a clear sign that the world’s confidence in Bharat’s defence equipment is on the rise,” he remarked, pausing briefly as if to let the point settle.

The Ministry of External Affairs amplified the message on X, noting that the agreement reflects “growing global trust in Indian defence technology.” The tweet, posted by spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, added that India is “earning global recognition” across production, exports and strategic cooperation.

Beyond the missile deal, the two leaders – Modi and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto – reaffirmed a shared vision for a free, open, and rules‑based Indo‑Pacific. Their joint statement linked the economic aspirations of India’s ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ and Indonesia’s ‘Indonesia Emas 2045’, underscoring how defence ties dovetail with broader trade and development goals.

Both sides also pledged to deepen collaboration in traditional and emerging defence domains: regular dialogues, joint exercises, staff talks, co‑research, and even co‑production of future technologies. They mentioned everything from port calls and peace‑keeping to hydrography and cadet exchanges – a reminder that defence partnership is as much about people‑to‑people contact as it is about missiles.

For Modi, the narrative is simple yet powerful. A stronger indigenous defence base, a growing export footprint, and trusted strategic partners – all combine to paint a picture of a nation that is no longer just a consumer of foreign arms, but a credible supplier on the world stage.

As the programme wrapped up, the Prime Minister’s concluding line felt like a promise: “Bharat will keep climbing, and the world will keep watching.” Whether you’re a policy wonk or a casual listener, that sentiment is hard to ignore.