India Emerging as a Trusted Global Defence Partner, Says PM Modi in Mann Ki Baat

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses the nation during the July edition of Mann Ki Baat on Sunday July 26, 2026 , highlighting India’s growing defence capabilities, indigenous missile programmes, private-sector achievements in space technology, and paying tribute to the heroes of the Kargil War-Photo Credit-primelookindia.com

Prime Minister Highlights Advances in Defence, Space Technology and Scientific Innovation on Kargil Vijay Diwas

New Delhi : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday July 26, 2026 reaffirmed India’s growing stature as a global defence and technology powerhouse, stating that the country is steadily scaling new heights in defence production, defence exports, space technology and scientific innovation.

Addressing the nation during the latest edition of his monthly radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’, the Prime Minister paid tribute to the heroes of the 1999 Kargil War, describing their courage and sacrifice as an enduring source of national pride.

“Kargil Vijay Diwas fills us with pride. This day reminds us of the extraordinary courage of our brave soldiers,” the Prime Minister said, recalling how Indian armed forces overcame difficult terrain and enemy challenges to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty.

Defence Sector Reaches New Milestones

Highlighting India’s expanding defence capabilities, the Prime Minister said the country is steadily transforming into a trusted global defence partner.

“Whether it is defence production or defence exports, India is consistently moving towards new heights. India is emerging as a trusted global defence partner and continues to strengthen its defence capabilities,” he said.

He noted that during his recent visit to Indonesia, India concluded a major defence agreement involving the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile and the Astra beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile, reflecting growing international confidence in India’s indigenous defence technologies.

The Prime Minister also praised the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for a series of recent achievements.

Among them were:

• Successful testing of the Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket.
• Successful trial of the Kusha missile system, conducted just days earlier.
• Continued advancements in indigenous missile technology.

According to the Prime Minister, these accomplishments reflect the dedication and expertise of India’s scientists and engineers.

Private Space Sector Creates History

The Prime Minister also highlighted India’s expanding space capabilities, describing the successful launch of Vikram-1 as a landmark achievement.

Launched on July 19, Vikram-1 became India’s first privately developed orbital launch vehicle, marking a significant milestone in the country’s space sector.

“Our young innovators have achieved what was once difficult even to imagine. They demonstrated incredible skill, passion and patience,” Modi said.

He described the launch as evidence of India’s growing innovation ecosystem and the increasing role of private enterprises in high-technology sectors.

Celebrating Young Scientific Talent

Beyond defence and space, the Prime Minister also congratulated Indian students for their impressive performances in international science Olympiads, saying their achievements reflected the country’s growing scientific capabilities and the emergence of a new generation of innovators.

According to Modi, India’s progress in advanced technology is being driven not only by government institutions but also by young researchers, entrepreneurs and innovators who are contributing to national development.

Analysis

This edition of Mann Ki Baat focused heavily on India’s journey towards technological self-reliance and strategic capability.

From paying homage to the heroes of Kargil to showcasing indigenous missile systems, defence exports and private-sector achievements in space technology, the Prime Minister sought to present a narrative of a nation steadily strengthening its security and scientific foundation.

The address also reinforced the government’s emphasis on Atmanirbhar Bharat, highlighting how investments in research, innovation and indigenous manufacturing are positioning India as an increasingly influential player in global defence and space industries.