Republic Day 2026: How Self-Reliant Is India’s Missile And Drone Power?

Ahead of the Republic Day parade, defence expert Dr Rajiv Narang says India has moved from arms importer to designer, with strengths in missiles, rockets, drones and AI-enabled systems. Indigenous projects like BrahMos, Pinaka and LCA show progress, though true self-reliance still needs engines, sensors, testing infrastructure and faster R&D to match global leaders.