India’s indigenous defence systems have sent a clear and resounding message — not just to its adversaries, but to the global defence community watching closely. According to John Spencer, retired United States Army officer and Chair of Urban Warfare Studies at the Modern War Institute, India’s domestically produced weapons demonstrated their effectiveness under real combat conditions, unlike Chinese-made systems used by rival nations.
Following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, India launched Operation Sindoor, a precision strike mission that successfully neutralised nine terror infrastructure sites across Pakistan. In response, Pakistan attempted to retaliate using a swarm of drones and missiles targeting civilian areas and defence installations in regions such as Jammu, Pathankot, and Jaisalmer. Not a single missile or drone hit its target, thanks to India’s robust air defence systems.
Spencer praised India’s growing defence self-reliance, largely driven by the ‘Make in India’ initiative, which has significantly ramped up indigenous production capabilities. From fulfilling only 32% of the Army’s ammunition requirements domestically in 2014, India has surged to meeting 88% of those needs by 2024. “From missiles like BrahMos and Pinaka to state-of-the-art radars and artillery systems, Indian-made equipment has proven its mettle in real-time combat,” Spencer wrote on X. “This is more than a national achievement—this is a blueprint for any country striving for true military preparedness.”
In contrast, Pakistan’s defence strategy, heavily reliant on Chinese systems like the HQ-9/P, LY-80, and FM-90, has been exposed for its ineffectiveness. These systems failed to detect or intercept India’s retaliatory strikes, including those targeting key military installations in Lahore and Chakrala. India’s integrated air defence network — combining Akash surface-to-air missiles, DRDO’s anti-drone technologies, and the Integrated Counter-UAS Grid — successfully intercepted every incoming threat, preventing any breach.
India’s counteroffensive also showcased the strategic use of Israeli-origin Harop drones (now indigenously produced), loitering munitions, and Rafale jets armed with SCALP and HAMMER missiles. These high-precision systems demonstrated the effectiveness of a multi-layered defence approach built on technology integration and local innovation.
An Indian official summed it up aptly: “The Modi government’s defence strategy isn’t about flashy one-time purchases; it’s about building a resilient, responsive, and deeply integrated defence ecosystem.”
John Spencer concluded by affirming that India’s current air defence posture — a tech-powered grid capable of detecting, jamming, and eliminating threats with surgical accuracy — should be seen as a global model for nations facing the uncertainties of modern warfare.
