India’s drive toward military self-reliance reached a new peak as Lieutenant General Pushpendra Singh VCOAS conducted high-level inspections of premier private defense manufacturing hubs.
During his extensive tour of Pune’s industrial belt, the Vice Chief of the Army Staff focused on the integration of autonomous systems and advanced firepower into the national arsenal. This strategic assessment of the domestic industrial base took place on January 3, 2026.
Advanced Robotics and UAVs at L&T and Bharat Forge
The visit to the facilities of Larsen & Toubro (L&T) and Bharat Forge Ltd provided a comprehensive look at the emerging technologies redefining the modern battlefield. Engineers briefed the VCOAS on breakthrough developments in robotics and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) that aim to minimize human risk in high-threat environments.
Furthermore, the General reviewed progress on modern artillery platforms, including the indigenously developed Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS). These platforms represent the pinnacle of Indian precision engineering, designed to meet the rigorous demands of high-altitude warfare and diverse terrain operations.
Lieutenant General Pushpendra Singh, VCOAS, visited the defence manufacturing facilities of Larsen & Toubro Ltd and Bharat Forge Ltd in Pune, where he was briefed on emerging defence technologies being developed in line with the vision of #AatmaNirbharBharat.
He reviewed ongoing… pic.twitter.com/CD9pOQrXAW
— ADG PI – INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) January 3, 2026
Recent data indicates that the Indian defense sector is targeting a production value of ₹1.75 lakh crore by the end of the current fiscal year. Major players like Bharat Forge have recently secured landmark contracts, including a massive ₹1,661.9 crore deal for over 2.5 lakh Close Quarter Battle (CQB) carbines. As Lieutenant General Pushpendra Singh VCOAS toured the assembly lines, he commended the industry for its “focused efforts in delivering cutting-edge capabilities.” Transitioning from a buyer to a builder, India now aims to double its defense exports to ₹35,000 crore within the next three years, fueled by these Pune-based innovations.
Indigenous Solutions for National Defence Preparedness
The VCOAS underlined the non-negotiable importance of homegrown technology in ensuring the security of India’s borders. Developing indigenous solutions allows the Armed Forces to maintain a technological edge without relying on volatile global supply chains. According to ADGPI News, the General emphasized that the evolving nature of the battlefield requires a constant infusion of “valour and wisdom” through local intellectual property.
