Article Complete
AIM
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Says AI Will Be A Strategic Force For Indian Defence Sector
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Says AI Will Be A Strategic Force For Indian Defence Sector

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Says AI Will Be A Strategic Force For Indian Defence Sector

Published Updated

Key takeaways

  • India's Defence Minister emphasises the importance of artificial intelligence in strengthening the country's defence capabilities.
  • A recent interactive session highlighted the need for AI and cyber systems in modern warfare across all defence wings.
  • The Indian government has established task forces and councils to guide the implementation of AI in defence.
  • Collaboration between industry and defence is seen as crucial for enhancing AI capabilities in the sector.
  • Singh's remarks underline the integral role of defence officials in achieving the ministry's strategic goals.
5 min
[caption id="attachment_46489" align="aligncenter" width="1000"]AI in defence Image for representation purpose only[/caption] As India gears up to become the next AI superpower, India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has reiterated how artificial intelligence and emerging technologies like robotics can help prepare India for future challenges. Speaking to senior officials, Singh emphasised the need to harness emerging technologies to bolster Indian defence forces capabilities across the board. As reported, the interactive session attended by 150 defence officials which lasted for about an hour and a half touched upon the need for AI and cyber systems in all wings to up the ante on modern warfare.  The interaction that focused majorly on technology also saw a discussion on Singh’s recent sortie on the Tejas - the light combat aircraft of IAF designed in India. “You're the heart and soul, not hands and legs of the ministry. With combined efforts we will achieve the goals set,” he said. Of late, Indian policymakers have taken a decisive stand on using AI. In early 2018, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) constituted a task force for implementation of AI. The multi-stakeholder task force worked towards laying down an institutional framework on capacity building and guidelines for defence machinery. In February 2019, the Ministry of Defence set up a Defence AI Council (DAIC) to provide strategic directions on how to bolster AI capabilities in defence and provide recommendations on building public private partnerships with industry and startups.   
Membership

Stay ahead with AI insights.

Unlimited access to premium articles, exclusive analysis, and the stories shaping India's AI economy.

Subscribe now

AIM Americas

1190 Miraloma Way Suite P, Sunnyvale, CA 94085

AIM India

1st Floor, Sakti Statesman, Bellandur, Bengaluru – 560103

Β© 2026 AIM. All rights reserved.