Indian Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh has raised serious concerns regarding prolonged delays in India’s defence procurement, particularly in the indigenous arms manufacturing sector.
While speaking at a Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) event attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, the Air Chief criticized the recurring pattern of missing project deadlines. “We routinely sign contracts knowing full well the timelines are unachievable. I can’t recall a single defence project being delivered on time,” he said, as reported by Indian media.
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Referring to the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) project, he pointed out that despite a ₹48,000 crore contract with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in 2021, no Tejas Mk1A jets have been delivered. The first was due in March 2024. Additionally, prototypes of Tejas Mk2 and the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) remain absent.
Singh stressed the importance of making India not just a manufacturing base, but also a hub for defence design under the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative. He urged stronger collaboration and trust between the military and domestic defence industry to meet strategic requirements.
Drawing on recent operational experiences, including Operation Sindoor, he noted the changing nature of warfare driven by technological advancements. He also welcomed the private sector’s entry into key defence projects like AMCA, calling it a positive sign of confidence in non-government players.
The Air Chief’s remarks are consistent with previous concerns. Since assuming office in October, he has repeatedly highlighted India’s lag behind China in defence production. In February, he voiced frustration over HAL’s slow progress, saying none of the 11 promised Tejas Mk1As had been delivered despite commitments.
He concluded with a stern warning: unless India’s defence sector accelerates innovation and delivery, its military preparedness and strategic goals could be compromised.
