From INS Vikrant to Agni-V: Milestones in India’s March Toward Modernisation Post Balakot

Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP)

In 2020, the Ministry of Defence released a comprehensive framework, Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP), designed to modernise and streamline how India procures its military equipment. The policy aims to make the process more transparent, efficient, and aligned with the goals of “Make in India” and “Aatmanirbhar Bharat.”

One of the standout features of DAP 2020 is the introduction of categories like Buy (Indian–IDDM)—Indigenously Designed, Developed, and Manufactured—and the ‘Buy and Make’ schemes.

This has given a strong push toward self-reliance, innovation, and modernisation—helping India build a defence ecosystem that’s not only capable but increasingly competitive on the global stage.

Rafale’s Arrival in IAF

The arrival of the first five Dassault Rafale jets in July 2020 and their formal induction into the Indian Air Force in 2021 marked a major milestone in India’s defence modernisation. This 4.5-generation multi-role fighter is capable of executing versatile missions, including air superiority, deep strikes, reconnaissance, anti-ship attacks, and nuclear deterrence.

By 2030, India is expected to operate 62 Rafale jets, including 26 Rafale-M variants for the Navy, becoming the first nation after France to fly both versions. This addition not only strengthens India’s air and naval power but also reflects its growing emphasis on modernisation and strategic capability in defence.

A New Chapter at Sea: The Commissioning of INS Vikrant

Commissioned on 2 September 2022, INS Vikrant—India’s first indigenously designed and built aircraft carrier—marked a defining milestone in the nation’s march toward defence modernisation. Built with 76% indigenous content, it showcases India’s growing shipbuilding expertise and technological advancement.

Equipped with advanced automation and an air wing of around 30 aircraft, INS Vikrant embodies a blend of innovation, engineering, and strategic foresight. Carrying forward the legacy of the original INS Vikrant (R11), this new IAC-1 stands as a powerful symbol of India’s self-reliance and its emergence as a modern maritime force.

Also read: 8 Indian Navy Warships and Submarines That Power the Blue Water Force

From INS Vishakhapatnam to INS Udaygiri: India’s Naval Advancements

In November 2021, as INS Visakhapatnam entered service, it symbolised India’s steady stride toward naval modernisation. As the first of its class, this indigenously built stealth destroyer brought cutting-edge technology, formidable firepower, and renewed confidence to India’s maritime ambitions.

Fast forward to August 26, 2025, the Navy took another leap forward with the commissioning of INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri under Project 17A. Built with over 75% indigenous content, these stealth frigates represent India’s steady progress toward self-reliance and a more capable, future-ready naval fleet.

HELINA’s Successful Flight Test

A major stride in India’s defence modernisation came with the successful flight test of the indigenously developed HELINA missile in 2022. HELINA is a helicopter-launched Anti-Tank Guided Missile with all-weather, day-and-night capabilities.

Jointly tested by the DRDO, Indian Army, and Indian Air Force from an Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), the missile successfully hit a simulated tank target, validating its accuracy and reliability. It stands among the world’s most sophisticated anti-tank systems — underscoring India’s steady progress toward indigenous defence capability.

Acquisition of S-400 Triumf: IAF’s Sudarshan Chakra

India’s acquisition of the Russian S-400 Triumf air defence system marked a defining step in strengthening its aerial shield. Regarded as one of the most advanced surface-to-air missile systems in the world, the S-400 can detect, track, and neutralise multiple aerial threats — including jets, bombers, ballistic missiles, and drones — at ranges of up to 380 km.

Three squadrons have already been delivered and deployed, with the remaining two expected by 2026. The system proved its operational effectiveness during Operation Sindoor, when India’s S-400 units successfully intercepted a barrage of incoming threats — marking the first known combat use of the system since its induction. The S-400 stands as a true “Sudarshan Chakra” in India’s air defence arsenal.

Launch of Agni-V: India’s Nuclear Capable Ballistic Missile

India’s march toward strategic modernisation took a major step with the launch of Agni-V. Indigenously developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), this intercontinental ballistic missile is capable of striking targets beyond 5,000 kilometres, placing it among the most advanced strategic weapons in India’s arsenal.

Since then, Agni-V has undergone multiple successful test-fires, including the latest in August 2025, reaffirming its reliability and accuracy. These advancements strengthen India’s nuclear deterrence posture and reflect a broader push toward self-reliance and modernisation in defence technology.

What’s Next for Indian Defence Technology?

India’s defence modernisation journey is far from over, with several major projects already underway. The Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program is set to mark a leap into fifth-generation fighter technology. The Tejas Mk2 and Twin Engine Deck-Based Fighter (TEDBF) are also under development to strengthen both the Air Force and naval aviation wings.

On the naval front, projects such as INS Vishal, the next indigenous aircraft carrier, and the P-75I submarine program are the next steps towards naval modernisation. Coupled with continued efforts under Aatmanirbhar Bharat, these projects underscore India’s focus on innovation, self-reliance, and preparedness—laying the foundation for a defence ecosystem that’s as advanced as it is resilient.

Also read: IAF Squadrons Explained: Roles, Aircraft, Nicknames, and Legendary Operations