India plans to operationalize its own indigenously developed missile defense system by 2035, according to Indian Chief of Defense Staff General Anil Chauhan. The system, named Sudarshan Chakra, is designed to enhance Indian defense capabilities by protecting strategic, civilian, and nationally critical infrastructure.

Speaking at a seminar on emerging technology and warfare in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh, Chauhan stated that the system would resemble the functionality of the Israeli occupation's Iron Dome, but would be tailored to India's specific strategic needs.

The Indian military aims to deploy the Sudarshan Chakra within the next decade. The shield will reportedly rely on advanced detection systems, drones, and missile interceptors to neutralize incoming threats.

While specific technical details remain undisclosed, officials emphasize the system’s role in safeguarding key assets across the country.

India's decision follows a brief but intense four-day conflict with Pakistan in May, during which both countries launched drones and missiles that targeted military and civilian infrastructure, including airfields. The conflict highlighted vulnerabilities in India’s aerial defense preparedness and underscored the urgent need for a domestic missile shield.

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Narendra Modi’s push for military self-reliance

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his recent Independence Day speech, reiterated the government’s commitment to bolstering Indian defense capabilities. He emphasized the need for technological self-sufficiency in defense manufacturing and the development of indigenous systems such as the Sudarshan Chakra.

While the initiative has been welcomed in India as a step toward strategic autonomy, defense experts have voiced concerns regarding feasibility and cost. They argue that implementing a comprehensive missile shield across a vast landmass like India would pose significant financial and technical hurdles. Similar systems in countries such as the US have faced challenges in scalability and effectiveness.

India remains the world’s second-largest arms importer after Ukraine, based on data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute. The Indian government is actively seeking to reduce its dependence on foreign defense suppliers by strengthening local manufacturing capabilities and acquiring technologies through partnerships with countries including France, Germany, and the US.

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