“A Nation That Manufactures Its Own Weapons Writes Its Own Future” — Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in Shirdi
Flags Off India’s First 300-km Universal Rocket Launching System ‘Suryastra’; Lays Foundation Stone for Missile Complex
Shirdi: On May 23, 2026, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the state-of-the-art defence manufacturing complex of the private sector company, NIBE Group, in Shirdi, Maharashtra. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis was also present on this occasion.
The Defence Minister stated, “A nation that manufactures its own weapons writes its own future.” He emphasized that future wars would not be determined solely by the number of soldiers, but rather by the capabilities of ammunition, automation, and modern technology.
On this occasion, India’s first 300-kilometer-range Universal Rocket Launching System, ‘Suryastra’, was flagged off. Additionally, the foundation stone for a modern missile complex was laid. During the event, indigenous TNT plant technology, RDX plant technology, and a renewable bio-energy-based compressed biogas plant were also unveiled.
The Defence Minister remarked that the Central Government has taken a significant step towards transforming India into a global defence manufacturing hub by opening up the defence production sector to private industries. He noted that, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, comprehensive reforms have been implemented in defence production, recognizing the capabilities of the private sector.
He stated that today, India’s private industries are continuously working on the development of state-of-the-art weapon systems and automated technologies, keeping in mind the requirements of future warfare. The Defence Minister called for making India a global hub for ammunition and automated defence systems.
Mr. Singh asserted that the objective of modern technology is not to diminish the role of soldiers, but rather to further empower them. He clarified that the final decision must always remain in human hands. Citing the reforms undertaken by the Ministry of Defence over the past decade, the Defence Minister stated that initiatives such as FDI liberalization, the Strategic Partnership Model, the Positive Indigenization List, iDEX, ADITI, and the Technology Development Fund have infused new energy into the youth and innovators. He noted that private sector participation in defence production has now reached 25–30 percent, and the government aims to increase this figure to 50 percent.
He emphasized that in today's world, security and the economy are inextricably linked. A robust economy serves as the very foundation for a strong military and modern defence capabilities. In such times, relying on other nations for defence production is neither prudent nor appropriate.
The Defence Minister expressed confidence that this new defence complex would not only bolster the nation's strategic strength but also generate employment and technological opportunities for the local economy, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), and the youth.
In his address, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated that the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-Reliant India) and 'Make in India' initiatives have lent renewed strength to the country's defence preparedness. He cited 'Operation Sindoor' as an exemplary illustration of the valor of Indian soldiers and the nation's indigenous defence capabilities.
The event also featured technology demonstrations, an exhibition showcasing the defence capabilities of MSMEs, and interactive sessions with industry leaders and experts from the defence sector. Chief of Defence Staff Anil Chauhan, DRDO Chairman Sameer V. Kamat, and several other senior military and administrative officials were present on the occasion.
