SOURCE: AFI
As India continues to modernize its armed forces and bolster indigenous defence production, 2025 is poised to be a pivotal year for the defence sector. Key programs and policy initiatives are set to shape the country’s strategic and operational capabilities. Here are the top five things expected from India’s defence sector in 2025:
1. First Prototype of the Tejas MkII Rolls Out
The Tejas MkII program is expected to reach a significant milestone with the rollout of its prototype in late 2025. This 4.5+ generation fighter is envisioned to feature advanced avionics, high weapons-carrying capability, and next-generation sensors. The rollout will mark a crucial step toward India’s goal of inducting the Tejas MkII into its fleet by the early 2030s to replace ageing fighter type fleet like Mirage-2000, Jaguar and Mig-29.
2. Delivery of the First Batch of Tejas Mk1A Fighters
After the initial flight process in 2024, the Indian Air Force is expected to receive the first operational batch of Tejas Mk1A fighters in 2025. These aircraft, equipped with Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, advanced electronic warfare systems, and air-to-air refueling capabilities, will play a vital role in replacing aging MiG-21s and bolstering India’s combat readiness.
3. Major Progress in the SSK and SSN Submarine Programs
India is anticipated to finalize its plans for building next-generation submarines, including both diesel-electric Scorpene-class submarines under Project 75(I) and nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs). The defence ministry is likely to announce significant progress in indigenizing these platforms, including the integration of Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) systems, further enhancing the Navy’s underwater combat capabilities.
4. Focus on Advanced Hypersonic Weapon Development
With successful tests of hypersonic glide and cruise missiles in 2024, 2025 is expected to bring further developments in this cutting-edge technology. The DRDO is likely to expand its hypersonic weapons program, targeting operational readiness by the end of the decade. Hypersonic weapons are crucial for India’s deterrence strategy, providing a rapid response capability against evolving threats.
5. Strengthening Indigenous Drone and UAV Programs
India’s focus on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and autonomous systems is set to intensify in 2025, with the launch of advanced drone platforms for reconnaissance, surveillance, and strike missions. The Defence Ministry’s push for indigenous kamikaze drones, swarm drones, and combat UAVs will be crucial in modernizing battlefield strategies. Collaboration with private industry and startups is expected to accelerate innovation in this domain.
The Indian defence sector in 2025 is set to witness groundbreaking advancements in technology, indigenous manufacturing, and strategic capability development. With a strong emphasis on self-reliance under the “Make in India” initiative, the sector is poised to not only meet domestic defence needs but also emerge as a key player in the global arms market. These anticipated developments underscore India’s commitment to building a robust and future-ready military.