India Plans ‘Sudarshan Chakra’ Defence System to Protect Critical Sites: PM Modi

Rapid Summary

• ‘Sudarshan Chakra’ Defense system: PM Narendra Modi announced the advancement of an indigenous state-of-the-art air defence system, ‘Sudarshan Chakra,’ to secure critical national sites against threats by 2035.
• Self-Reliance in Jet Engines: Modi urged Indian innovators to develop jet engines domestically for fighter aircraft,reducing dependence on foreign technology.
• Inspiration from Heritage: The project takes inspiration from Krishna’s mythological Sudarshan Chakra and emphasizes India’s cultural legacy influencing modern defence strategies.
• Comparisons with Iron Dome: Experts speculate the system might resemble Israel’s Iron Dome missile shield in effectiveness.
• Security Context: The announcement follows concerns over potential threats, including remarks from Pakistan’s Army Chief targeting Indian assets along the border.
• Challenges with Jet Engine Development:

– Past delays in HAL-GE Aerospace collaboration due to missed deadlines have slowed delivery of Tejas combat jets.
– india’s earlier Kaveri engine project approved in 1989 remains incomplete despite meaningful investment (Rs 2,035 crore).

Indian Opinion Analysis

The announcement of mission ‘Sudarshan Chakra’ highlights India’s push for strategic autonomy amidst growing regional security challenges. Developing an air defence system capable of neutralizing missile and aerial attacks reflects a long-term commitment to safeguarding vital national infrastructure from evolving threats such as those posed by neighboring countries.

India’s focus on domestic jet engine production signals a decisive step towards achieving technological self-reliance. However, it underscores historical challenges like delays in indigenous programs (e.g., kaveri engine), offering lessons for future initiatives.

PM Modi’s address blends symbolism from Indian heritage with targeted innovation priorities-a strategy that may inspire further investment and local expertise within India’s expanding defence sector.

The implications are twofold:

1. Strengthened capability for independent strategic responses protects sovereignty amid external pressures.
2. Success or failure will likely hinge upon sustained funding, technical precision, and overcoming bureaucratic hurdles tied to past ventures.

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