DRDO Chief Expects 90 Per Cent Defence Self-Reliance In Four-Five Years, Envisions India As Global Arms Supplier

Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) Chairman Sameer V Kamat expressed optimism that India would be able to achieve around 90 per cent self-reliance in defence production in the next four to five years.

However, the DRDO Chairman added that 100 per cent domestic production is not economically viable, but "we must cater to our own needs and remain relevant globally," Outlook Business quoted him as saying.

"India is considered as a neutral player, so we can supply to the USA, Russia, and Southeast Asia. It is only we have to recognise niche technology and products that we can manufacture and become a global supplier," he said.

Kamat emphasised that the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) industry is one of the most potentially successful fields for Indian defence startups. He further noted that this would enable the country to become a significant player in the global defence export market.

"Recent wars have demonstrated that UAVs will remain a critical component on the battlefield for the next 5–10 years. They have diverse applications—ranging from surveillance and logistics to weapons deployment," he added.

"However, in the next decade, anti-UAV technologies will begin to dominate space. So, it’s not a long runway—if you're quick to capture the market, now is the time to get involved,” he said, emphasising substantial opportunities for startup companies.

The head of DRDO emphasised the 'Sensor' sector as another promising field where Indian defense startups can contribute, given its wide range of applications. He highlighted the importance of space for DRDO, referencing the initial developments in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Kamat discussed the yearly 'Dare to Dream' competition held by DRDO, which is designed to back the concepts of defence startups that ultimately transform into a product. He further mentioned that venture capitalists would be partnering in the upcoming contest, offering a wider range of opportunities to the startups.