New roadmap sets ambitious targets across nuclear propulsion, hypersonics, AI integration, and space surveillance
The Indian Ministry of Defence has unveiled a landmark 15-year modernisation roadmap designed to transform the country’s armed forces into a multi-domain, technologically advanced force. Announced this week, the strategy spans across nuclear-powered naval assets, next-generation armoured vehicles, hypersonic and laser weapons, artificial intelligence (AI), and an ambitious expansion of space-based surveillance.
Officials describe the plan as the most significant upgrade in decades, aiming to position the India’s military for future conflicts that will increasingly be defined by speed, precision, and advanced technology.
Nuclear-Powered Naval Expansion
A major highlight of the roadmap is the construction of a third aircraft carrier powered by nuclear propulsion. Unlike conventional carriers, nuclear power offers extended endurance and operational reach. Alongside this, the plan includes deploying at least 10 nuclear propulsion units across upcoming naval platforms.
The naval fleet expansion also envisions:
One advanced aircraft carrier
Ten next-generation destroyers and frigates
Seven corvettes
Four landing dock platforms
Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch Systems (EMALS) for carrier operations
Defence analysts view this as a clear step toward long-range maritime dominance.
Ground Forces and Armour
For land warfare, the roadmap outlines a sweeping modernisation of armoured forces:
1,800 new main battle tanks to replace the ageing T-72 fleet
400 light tanks optimised for mountainous terrain
50,000 tank-mounted anti-tank guided missiles
700+ robotic counter-IED systems
The shift reflects a move towards automated and precision-ground operations, designed to enhance survivability and effectiveness in diverse terrains.
Air Power and Unmanned Systems
The Indian Air Force segment of the roadmap emphasises a mix of manned and unmanned capabilities:
75 high-altitude pseudo-satellites (HAPS) for long-duration surveillance
150 stealth bomber drones capable of deep strikes
Over 100 remotely piloted aircraft
Expanded precision-guided munitions stockpiles
These additions are expected to extend aerial reach and ensure dominance in contested airspace.
Hypersonics, Lasers, and AI Integration
The roadmap highlights emerging weapon technologies as central to future warfare. Planned acquisitions include:
Hypersonic missiles for rapid, hard-to-intercept strikes
Laser-based directed energy weapons for air and missile defence
Stealth unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs)
AI-powered decision support and targeting systems
AI integration is planned across naval, land, and air platforms, making it a core element of future operations. Defence experts note that this reflects global trends where autonomy, speed, and precision define battlefield advantage.
Space-Based Surveillance
India’s modernisation strategy also invests heavily in space-based assets. Under Space-Based Surveillance Phase III, the country plans to launch 52 defence surveillance satellites by 2029:
21 developed with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
31 produced by private firms
Combined with high-altitude pseudo-satellites, these assets will create persistent observation and faster decision-making cycles, strengthening strategic deterrence.
Strategic Implications
The new roadmap follows lessons drawn from recent conflicts and regional security dynamics. Analysts describe it as the most ambitious upgrade since the mid-20th century, aimed at filling critical gaps revealed in recent operations.
Equally important is the emphasis on self-reliance. Much of the equipment will be developed domestically in partnership with private industry under national manufacturing initiatives. This is intended to reduce foreign dependence and boost India’s defence ecosystem.
Conclusion
India’s 15-year Defence Vision signals a decisive shift toward future-ready forces. By combining nuclear-powered naval platforms, hypersonic weapons, AI-driven systems, and a vast space surveillance network, the roadmap aims to secure technological superiority across all domains of warfare.
With implementation stretching to 2040, the plan represents both a massive financial commitment and a strategic bet on indigenous innovation. If executed as outlined, it could reshape the regional balance of power and place India’s armed forces at the forefront of next-generation warfare.