Time to Act on Defence Delays
IAF chief AP Singh over delays in defence projects and supplies should not be taken lightly in the wake of continuous threats to our national security.
Published on Jun 1, 2025
By The Editorial Team
- The outbursts of Indian Air Force (IAF) chief AP Singh over
delays in defence projects and supplies should not be taken lightly in the wake
of continuous threats to our national security. The entire world knows that our
western neighbour, Pakistan, has long indulged in a proxy war against India
with the aim of destabilising it. They attempt to disturb India in every
possible manner—either by initiating unprovoked firing across the border in
violation of the ceasefire, or by helping terrorists infiltrate into India to
cause massive destruction of lives and property. As a result, our national
security always remains under threat, as these elements completely depend on
India-bashing for their survival.
- In fact, former Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf openly
admitted during his first visit to India that many politicians in his country
had lost power for showing a friendly attitude towards India. It was due to the
fear of losing power that the much-touted Agra Summit between the two countries
failed to issue a joint declaration, despite agreeing on a roadmap to settle
the Kashmir issue once and for all. The solution of this vexed issue would
render many influential people jobless. This is why historic accords like the
Tashkent Accord and the Shimla Accord have failed to deliver results—Pakistan
signed these agreements only to buy time to regroup and attack India with
renewed vigour after its misadventures. In its effort to disturb India,
Pakistan has become a breeding ground for terrorism, which now poses a danger
not only to India but to all of mankind, as evident in terrorist attacks around
the world.
- In such a situation, the nation is duty-bound to stand
beside the armed forces in every possible manner, as they are responsible for
protecting the unity and integrity of the country. Thus, it is a pity when a
person holding such a high post has to lament poor implementation of defence
projects—especially on a public platform, in the presence of the defence
minister.
- Moreover, the IAF chief specifically named several projects
that are facing inordinate delays, virtually making the Army a sitting duck in
front of enemies who are always equipped with the latest arms. His criticism
was directed at Indian industries that have grabbed contracts for defence
supplies. Admitting that the country cannot always look outward for supplies,
AP Singh strongly advocated for indigenisation of defence projects. He reminded
the high-profile audience that not a single defence project has been completed
on time—resulting in the armed forces at times doubting Indian industries.
- It must be admitted here that this is the most severe
criticism of Indian defence-related industries by any serving officer to date.
The industry must therefore shed its lacklustre approach and strictly adhere to
the deadlines mentioned in contracts, keeping in mind the fact that a powerful
army is built only when it receives timely supplies. Ensuring proper and timely
support to the armed forces must remain our top priority.
