Technological excellence and surprise element imperative for national security: Rajnath Singh

According to a PIB report, while addressing the Air Force Commanders' Conference held in New Delhi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated that the 'element of surprise', technological excellence and jointness are extremely crucial to enhance operational preparedness against the changing forms of warfare of the present times. He emphasised strengthening both the offensive and defensive capabilities of the armed forces against traditional and emerging threats.

Speaking at this two-day conference held on 12 November, 2026, the Defence Minister said that the forces must develop capabilities so that the enemy gets no time to react or recover, and simultaneously we are never caught unawares by any unexpected move from the enemy. He urged to further strengthen the intelligence and surveillance apparatus.

Discussing modern wars, he mentioned the Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Hamas conflicts and stated that missiles, drones and advanced weapons are playing an important role in the non-contact domain. He asked the commanders to remain prepared for challenges such as kamikaze drones, surveillance and counter-drone operations.

Rajnath Singh called upon the Indian Air Force to develop special doctrines and architecture for new warfare domains such as electronic, cyber and space. He said that in future wars, besides the number of aircraft, technological sophistication, speed of response and precision of preparations will play a major role.

Talking about the transformations taking place in the armed forces, he stated that comprehensive reforms are underway in organisational structures, jointness and operational concepts. Due to changes in the security environment, it has become necessary to adopt a forward-looking approach in military preparations.

Commending the professionalism, restraint and balance demonstrated by the air warriors during 'Operation Sindoor', the Defence Minister stated that the lessons from that operation have increased the focus on drones and air defence systems in the IAF's operational procedures. Praising the coordination among the three services, he considered jointness vital.

He emphasised utilising the technological knowledge of newly recruited youth for decision-making processes and organisational development. Regarding the 'second tour of duty' of Agniveers, he stated that this decision was taken following the feedback received from the armed forces.

During the meeting, the Defence Minister unveiled in-house Artificial Intelligence applications developed by the I-Centre of Excellence of UDAAN, which will automate operations, administration and aerospace safety tasks.

Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, Air Chief Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, Production Secretary Sanjeev Kumar and Financial Secretary Vishwajeet Sahay, along with several senior officials, were present at this inaugural session.