Singh emphasized the critical role of drones in modern warfare, declared Indian drones undetectable by even the US and China, and praised Uttar Pradesh’s transformation into a hub of innovation. (Image Credits: Indian Masterminds)
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday dedicated the country’s largest aero engine test bed to the nation in Uttar Pradesh’s Gautam Buddh Nagar. The facility, set up by Raphe mPhibr Pvt Ltd, marks a significant step in India’s push toward defence self-reliance.
Praising the company’s young founders, Vishal Mishra and Vivek Mishra, Singh described their achievement as a “symbol of India’s new technological revolution.” He added, “Despite handling the responsibility of the Defence Ministry for over six years, I have never seen such young people setting up such a big and innovative establishment.”
Highlighting India’s growing expertise in unmanned aerial systems, Singh declared, “Now when Indian drones fly, neither America nor China will be able to detect them—this is a very big achievement.”
He stressed that drones were no longer auxiliary equipment but had become central to modern warfare. “Generally, when we hear the word ‘aircraft’, images of Tejas, Rafale and fighter jets come to mind. But in today’s times, drones are emerging as a decisive force. They can reach areas where large equipment cannot.”
The Defence Minister pointed to the extensive use of drones in the Russia-Ukraine war as evidence of their role in shaping modern strategy. “This proves that understanding the importance of drones and incorporating them into our war policy has become absolutely essential,” he said.
Tracing the history of drones, Singh noted that they began as tools for surveillance before being developed into combat-ready systems. “Countries that invested in drone technology have gained a significant edge, while many others have been left behind,” he added.
The event was attended by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, and other senior dignitaries.
Singh emphasized that the facility reflected Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of an Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India). “Earlier, we had to import drones, but today we are designing, developing, and manufacturing them domestically. Many entrepreneurs are contributing, and no praise is enough for their efforts.”
Recounting Operation Sindoor, Singh said it demonstrated how determination, courage, and science can achieve the impossible. “During Operation Sindoor, our forces finished off the enemy within 22 minutes. If that was the story of the bravery of our Army, then Aatmanirbhar Bharat is the story of the innovation of our scientists and youths.”
The Defence Minister also praised the transformation of Uttar Pradesh under Yogi Adityanath’s leadership. “Earlier, manufacturing and setting up industries here was extremely difficult due to crime, extortion, and irregularities. Today, UP is moving towards a new and golden era, with investors showing more enthusiasm here than in other states.”
He linked this change with broader global economic shifts. “From the land-based economy to industries, to IT, satellites, semiconductors, and now artificial intelligence—technology defines progress. Countries that master technology are the ‘technology haves’; those that don’t, remain ‘technology have-nots.’”
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Singh also toured the advanced manufacturing facilities in Noida, including a metal additive manufacturing unit, furnaces operating up to 2800°C, an advanced composite polymer centre, payload-drop drones, swarm drones, and precision-guided missile drones. He stressed that these innovations would enhance India’s defence capabilities.
“We will have to be more advanced in technology and innovation. This is the only way to protect ourselves and contribute to the world. India is not lagging behind,” Singh concluded.
